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Model-based decision-making in fish: a dilemma for the extended-sensory-horizons hypothesis
Xiaohui Yu1, Peter Carruthers1
1Department of Philosophy, The University of Maryland, Maryland, USA xhyu@umd.edu pcarruth@umd.eduhttps://faculty.philosophy.umd.edu/pcarruthers/.
The Behavioral and Brain Sciences
|June 24, 2026
Summary
Most fish species demonstrate simple model-based decision-making, sufficient for evolving vision systems. This suggests no fundamental difference exists between aquatic and land-based predator avoidance strategies.
Area of Science:
- Comparative cognition
- Evolutionary biology
- Neuroethology
Background:
- The distinction between "System 1" (intuitive) and "System 2" (reflective) decision-making is crucial in cognitive science.
- Previous research often assumes complex cognitive processes for sophisticated behaviors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To differentiate between simple and complex decision-making in fish.
- To assess the cognitive requirements for the evolution of visual systems in aquatic environments.
- To challenge the notion of a sharp cognitive divide between aquatic and terrestrial life.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of existing literature on fish behavior and cognition.
- Comparison of cognitive demands for predator avoidance in aquatic versus terrestrial environments.
- Evaluation of the necessity of "System 2" decision-making for visual system evolution.
Main Results:
- Most fish species exhibit "System 1" model-based decision-making.
- "System 1" processing appears sufficient for the evolution of ventral-system-like vision in fish.
- Predator avoidance in land-based animals may also rely primarily on "System 1" processes.
Conclusions:
- The cognitive requirements for visual system evolution in fish are met by simple decision-making.
- There is no inherent cognitive barrier separating aquatic and land-based life-forms regarding predator avoidance.
- Cognitive similarities suggest a more unified evolutionary pathway for sensory systems across diverse environments.
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