Fish Are Way Smarter Than You Think

The video debunks the myth that fish have a three-second memory, highlighting their cognitive abilities. Fish can learn through time-place learning and Pavlovian conditioning, and they exhibit long-term memory. They also demonstrate navigation skills, tool use, and social interactions, comparable to other vertebrates. Fish can recognize individuals, cooperate with other species, and even show signs of self-recognition. Despite lacking a neocortex, fish perform complex cognitive tasks, challenging preconceived notions about animal intelligence.

What is a common misconception about fish memory?

• Fish can remember for a decade.

• Fish have the same memory span as humans.

• Fish can only remember for three seconds.

• Fish have no memory at all.

What is time-place learning in fish?

• Learning to avoid predators.

• Learning to swim faster.

• Learning to recognize different species.

• Learning to associate a place with a specific time.

How do fish demonstrate Pavlovian learning?

• By associating a light with food.

• By swimming in circles.

• By jumping out of water.

• By changing colors.

What is a cognitive map in fish?

• A sonar system for navigation.

• A mental representation of their environment.

• A GPS system in their brain.

• A physical map they carry.

Which fish behavior suggests tool use?

• Using rocks to open sea urchins.

• Changing colors to camouflage.

• Swimming in schools.

• Jumping over obstacles.

How do groupers and eels cooperate during hunting?

• Groupers signal eels to hunt together.

• Eels follow groupers without communication.

• They hunt separately and meet later.

• Groupers and eels compete for the same prey.

What is the mirror test used to assess in animals?

• Self-recognition ability.

• Speed of swimming.

• Color-changing ability.

• Memory span.