FALSE

The claim that goldfish have a three-second memory is a widely debunked myth 1 4 6. High-credibility academic and scientific sources state the answer is a definitive NO 3. Research indicates that goldfish memories can actually last for weeks, months, and even years 3 10. Studies have shown that goldfish are capable of navigating their surroundings 2, telling time 9 10, recognizing music, and learning routines 7. Experiments conducted by researchers at Plymouth University demonstrated that goldfish could even be trained to nudge a lever at specific times to receive food 9 10. Experts categorize the three-second belief as a common misconception that ignores the complexity of fish learning and memory 1 5.