HomeScienceDo goldfish have a 3-second memory? Learn how memory work in this fish

Do goldfish have a 3-second memory? Learn how memory work in this fish

Do you think goldfish only remember things for 3 seconds? Discover the truth! Learn how goldfish can remember tricks, find food, recognise people and explore their tank in this fun kids science explainer.

January 12, 2026 / 17:53 IST
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Goldfish only have a memory of three seconds, but it is not true. (Image: Canva)
Goldfish only have a memory of three seconds, but it is not true. (Image: Canva)
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  • Goldfish can remember events and places for weeks or months, not just 3 seconds.
  • They learn using sight, smell and taste also they can recognise people who feed them.
  • Goldfish can learn tricks and develop unique personalities from their experiences.

You may have heard that goldfish only have a memory of 3 seconds. This is a common myth, but it is not true. Goldfish are far smarter than many people realise. They can learn from their experiences, remember places and even recognise people who feed them.

Scientists have studied them carefully and discovered that their memory lasts much longer than anyone imagined. Explore the science behind their memory.

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Goldfish Can Remember Things for Months

Scientists have studied goldfish in experiments for years. They found that goldfish can remember certain events, places and even tricks for weeks or months. For example, if a goldfish learns to swim through a maze to get food, it can remember the route for a long time. This way goldfish can remember more than three seconds!