How long is the memory of a fish?

Question

I heard that a fish's memory was seven seconds, but does it vary for different species of fish. I'm asking particularly about Bettas, guppies, and goldfish. Also, is it possible for fish to recognize someone? If so, how long does it take them to do that?

Answer 1

The 3 second memory of a fish is not true, but actual "smarts" and memory does vary from species to species. I have owned bettas and goldfish and though it took time I was able to train both species to do various things. Was more or less target training with food, sound and light. Between the two it was rather simple with the betta.

As far as fish knowing someone yes it is possible but only on a simple level. Shape of human walking towards bowl = food kind of thinking more so than here comes "sally". There are fish though, sharks are a good example that are able to tell the difference between people.

I had a friend who worked with sharks (nurse) and several of them would always work well and pay attention to him but ignore other keepers. Be it sight, sound, smell... they were able to tell the difference between person "A" and person "B".

If you are looking to train your fish it will need to be something you work with daily until they learn the new condition.

Answer 2

Carp have been known to avoid a particular food for a year after getting hooked.

Bass three days.

This study was done about 30 years ago.

Answer 3

you are correct a fishes temporary memory is a few seconds but when they use their full memory like recognizing someone they can remember something like that for a few days to remember someone it takes about a day i think it really depends but that pretty much covers it

Answer 4

According to my Snapple lid, goldfish have a memory of three seconds.

I don't know where Snapple gets their facts, or how they verify them, but that's what I've been told.