Golfish memory.

[styley]

Is it true that a goldfish only has a memory span of 10 or so seconds. It doesn't seem so to me because when I feed the goldfish in our house he seems to know whats going on and comes up to the top of the water. Also, if I forget he'll usually make a splash as if to remind me to feed him. I don't suppose anyone's scientifically proved or disproved this theory have they?

[trevoraston]

hi styley,

i remember reading about this sort of thing and it stated that goldfish have very good memories about upto 3 months. They can tell the time as well and can also be taught to follow a routine. I think its just an old wifes tale that you tell your kids so they don't worry about your fish being trapped in a tiny goldfish bowl and going round and round all day.

[Jadam]

I heard a rumour that the man who invented the round goldfish bowl also invented this theory to go with it so with people would buy the bowl and not feel bad for the fish swimming around and around all day. Don't know if thats true or not thou.

[fairkatrina]

Goldfish have limited memories, but they are certainly longer than 3 seconds! They can remember the layout of their tank and feeding time, and they will also remember you if you always wear the same colour around them. A friend had two fish who knew what time he came in from work and would swim to the top of the tank to let him stroke them (terrible for their scales, but they did love it!).