[LINK] "Three-second fish memory 'a myth'"

[rfmcdonald]

This isn't surprising. The goldfish and koi in my tank are clustering on the side and in the corner of the tank closest to me, watching me and waiting to be fed, after all.

The traditional view that fish lack the brain power to retain memories is "absolute rubbish" said Dr Kevin Warburton, an adjunct researcher with Charles Sturt University's Institute for Land, Water and Society in Australia.

He made his conclusions after studying the behaviour of Australian freshwater fish such as the silver perch, which can remember a predator for several months after only one encounter.

Dr Warburton said: "Fish are quite sophisticated.

"Fish can remember prey types for months. They can learn to avoid predators after being attacked once and they retain this memory for several months.

"And carp that have been caught by fishers avoid hooks for at least a year.

They've also a fair degree of social sophistication, too.

Fish can also learn to improve how to catch food, said Dr Warburton, carry out acts of deception and modify their behaviour.

For example, in reef environments cleaner fish who eat parasites off 'client' fish act on best behaviour when they spot a larger patron.

Dr Warburton said: "What's fascinating is that they co-operate more with clients when they are being observed by other potential clients.

"This improves their 'image' and their chances of attracting clients.