MEBRO
FACT CHECK #-SRE7M5E
06/13/26 · 10:26 AM UTC · 11 SOURCES
“Goldfish have a three-second memory.”
TL;DR ·Scientific evidence confirms goldfish possess long-term memory capabilities lasting for several months.
WHAT WE FOUND
The claim that goldfish have a three-second memory is a widely debunked myth . Multiple scientific studies have proven that goldfish possess complex cognitive abilities and good memories . Research from institutions such as Oxford University indicates that goldfish can navigate their surroundings and retain information for weeks, months, or even years . Furthermore, experiments conducted by animal psychologists found that goldfish can be trained to perform tasks and can even tell the time . These fish are capable of learning routines, recognizing music, and remembering specific cues for food . Experts categorize the three-second memory claim as a common misconception that is definitively false . Sources suggest the animal's actual memory span is at least three months .
SOURCES
- 1 · iflscience.comACADEMICDo Goldfish Really Have A Three-Second Memory? - IFLScience
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- 2 · bbc.comACADEMICOxford University: Goldfish do have good memories, scientists find
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- 3 · blogs.iu.eduACADEMICGoldfish myths: Does their memory really only last seven seconds?
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- 4 · livescience.comACADEMICDo goldfish really have a 3-second memory?
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- 5 · law.temple.eduACADEMICARE WE NO BETTER THAN GOLDFISH?
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- 6 · amnh.orgWEBGoldfish as a Model for Understanding Learning and Memory
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- 7 · abc.net.auWEBGoldfish three-second memory myth busted
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- 8 · discovermagazine.comWEBGoldfish May Have a Longer Memory Span Than Just ...
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- 9 · thenakedscientists.comWEBDo fish really have a 3 second memory? | Interviews
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- 10 · westeamahead.orgWEBMythBuster: Goldfish Have a 3-Second Memory
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- 11 · discoverwildlife.comWEBDo goldfish really only have a 3 second memory?
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CHECK #______
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