Goldfish Behind the Wheel: Can They Really Drive Tanks?
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Chapter 1: An Unlikely Driver
In a fascinating twist on what we thought we knew about aquatic life, research from Ben-Gurion University suggests that goldfish can indeed drive small vehicles, or "fish-operated vehicles" (FOVs). This breakthrough challenges the long-held belief that fish possess limited cognitive abilities.
The concept of training animals to operate vehicles is not entirely new. During World War II, for instance, pigeons were conditioned to guide missiles—a project that continued until the advent of electronic navigation systems in the 1950s. Just like pigeons, goldfish have now been taught to drive using operant conditioning, a method similar to training dogs to follow commands.
Section 1.1: Understanding Operant Conditioning
Operant conditioning, as defined by B.F. Skinner, is the principle that behavior is influenced by its consequences. For example, when you command a dog to sit and reward it with a treat, the dog learns to associate sitting with receiving a reward.
So, how do researchers manage to teach goldfish to drive, especially considering their lack of interest in treats like sausages? Fortunately, goldfish have their own preferred foods that can serve as effective rewards.
Subsection 1.1.1: Training Methodology
The training process involved using a small electronic vehicle that transported the fish around a tank. A camera monitored the goldfish's movements, and when the vehicle struck a brightly colored target, the fish received a food reward. Remarkably, within just ten days, the goldfish learned to navigate the FOV to reach their food.
As Professor Ronen Segev explains, “It’s akin to learning to ride a bike. You develop a set of motor skills that you previously did not have. Goldfish appear to be capable of acquiring new motor abilities.”
Section 1.2: The Journey Ahead
The process is relatively straightforward for humans:
- The goldfish moves to a specific spot in the tank.
- The FOV glides toward the target.
- When the target is hit, the fish is rewarded with food.
It’s impressive that goldfish, often relegated to the stereotype of having a mere seven-second memory, can achieve this feat so quickly.
Chapter 2: Exploring New Horizons
The first video showcases goldfish successfully driving their small vehicles, demonstrating their newfound skills in a controlled environment.
The second video poses the question, "Can goldfish really drive?" and delves deeper into the implications of this research.
As noted by Professor Segev, the goldfish were also adept at exploring their surroundings, steering clear of obstacles and correcting their course as needed. This insight contributes to our understanding of animal behavior, revealing that fish can see well both underwater and in the air.
Segev reflects on the broader question: “Despite our vastly different brain structures, what similarities exist between us and these creatures?” It appears that one of these shared traits is the capacity for learning complex tasks, such as driving.
For those intrigued by stories of aquatic creatures exhibiting surprising behaviors, don't miss the exploration of what happens when you give MDMA to a grumpy octopus!