I didn't think they lived very long but my kids brought one home from the fair over 5 years ago in a little plastic bag. I put it in a jug at first, didn't look like it would last the week out and it's still going strong!!
It's still a scrawny little thing but it seems healthy enough.
nb, I didn't think they were allowed to give them out as prizes at fairs any more? does anyone know?
I have one in my pond that is well over 30 years old and also came from a fair. It is usually thought that a fish will only grow to a size which the pond, or tank, it is in can accommodate. A fish kept in a small bowl will remain very small.