From Pandemic Malaise to FOVs

For most of us, "fish" and "car" are words that we rarely bring together in a single sentence. But for researchers in Israel, goldfish and mini goldfish cars are introducing a whole new way of conceptualizing the intelligence of fish.

Yes, you read that correctly: mini goldfish cars. Or, to use their new technical term: Fish Operated Vehicles -- better known as FOVs.

Researchers at Bun Gurion University of the Negev announced this month that they have successfully trained goldfish to operate a robotic car with laser technology that senses the fish's location within the water tank as well as the car's trajectory toward a reward.

As Israeli scientist Shachar Givon reported, the fish were initially confused but soon learned that their own movement in the tank impacted the movement of the vehicle, propelling them toward a target where they were rewarded with food. Six goldfish participated in the study, each navigating their vehicle 10 times, and researchers noted that while all of the goldfish quickly learned to drive, some were notably better drivers than others:

"There were very good fish that were doing excellent and there were mediocre fish that showed control of the vehicle but were less proficient in driving it," said neuroscientist Ronen Segev.

When you have space this week, reread Genesis 1. While many of us find the creation story familiar, skimming through the words with ease, instead allow yourself to marvel at the majesty of an unfolding creation. God did not create this world in a hurry, pausing over favored moments and speeding with imperfection through others. Instead He created with intentionality and perfection: each atom, each metamorphosis, each breath. Goldfish, too, were created with a perfect design, and we have barely begun to uncover their complexity.

So the next time you are feeling weighted by the ongoing pandemic and the challenges that have accompanied these difficult years, imagine FOVs and the sheer potential of this recent discovery. For scientists, the realization that fish have cognitive capabilities that extend beyond their immediate surroundings is remarkable. And for the rest of us, it might be enough to imagine FOVs pulling up alongside us at the next four-way stop.

For a further details and a video peek at an FOV, look here: Scientists Taught Goldfish to Drive.

Peace to you this week,

Jennie