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With a shark under each arm: Dr Fish Feelings

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With a shark under each arm: Dr Fish Feelings(Supplied)

Dr Culum Brown is a leading researcher in the field of fish cognition. He's based at Macquarie University where he runs the Fish Lab — the Behaviour, Ecology and Evolution of Fishes Laboratory.

His fascination for fish stems from growing up in parts of south-east Asia, where he would spend every possible hour in the ocean with a snorkel.

As an adult, Culum's marine biology studies around the world (including the UK and Finland) have revealed many facts which upend the basis of our common understanding of fish.

His research has shown that even the smallest fish are capable of learning and can retain memories for months.

Within schools of fish, there is often a strict social hierarchy which can include forms of bullying.

His research into Port Jackson sharks has revealed a lot about their social lives as 'puppies of the sea'.

He work has also revealed that sting rays have especially good memories and can distinguish days of the week.

Further information

Find out more about Culum's work

Guests

Credits

Broadcast 
Human Interest, Illegal Fishing, Rural, Fishing, Aquaculture, Fish, Animal Science, Science and Technology
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