Betta caught in gravel syphon

[Ac9793]

I was finishing up a partial water change when I accidentally sucked my betta up in the syphon. He was tucked in a back corner and blended in with the background, so I didn’t realize I had sucked him up for a second, but as soon as I did I stopped the syphon and he fell back into the water. He isn’t moving much at all, and can’t swim right. I’m scared I broke his back. What should I do? I’m so worried right now and have no idea if he is seriously injured or just in shock. Please help!

Update: he has moved a little bit his breathing has been getting slower and slower.. I’m super worried about him. Should I leave him in his tank or move him into a shallower container?

 

[JoshMason37]

I know this is late, but I just joined. I don't know much, but I'd say go to Walmart and buy one of the portable aerators for live bait (like $7) and put the better with the aerator in a 5 gallon bucket with some dechlorinated water. Feed him like normal and watch him carefully. I hope he's ok!

 

[Ac9793]

I know this is late, but I just joined. I don't know much, but I'd say go to Walmart and buy one of the portable aerators for live bait (like $7) and put the better with the aerator in a 5 gallon bucket with some dechlorinated water. Feed him like normal and watch him carefully. I hope he's ok!

I know this is late, but I just joined. I don't know much, but I'd say go to Walmart and buy one of the portable aerators for live bait (like $7) and put the better with the aerator in a 5 gallon bucket with some dechlorinated water. Feed him like normal and watch him carefully. I hope he's ok!

Thanks for the advice! Unfortunately he passed away later that day.

 

[Aquatony]

I did this accidentally to one of my beloved GBR's.. He also died a few hours later. Hit the sand substrate like a ton of bricks when I panicked and pulled the siphon out of the water.

We do the best we can for our aquatic friends under our care. Sometimes we make mistakes.

 

[NickAu]

Been there done that, don't blame yourself.