The ears of many fishes are able to detect sound (particle motion) and while many species do not hear as well as humans or other mammals in air, they are sensitive enough to be able to detect the "acoustic scene," which means that fish can hear the sounds around them of biological relevance.
And do you really believe this half dead Blood Parrot (not king kong as stated) can play dead at its owners command? its either got a swim bladder disease or its just dying.