EMERGENCY - please help!

prgwbtd · 02-18-2007, 10:46 PM

I just now noticed that one of my tetras was plastered against the side of my filter - the part that sucks the water in. His body was bent around it, but he's still alive. I freed him from the pull of the filter, but now he's lying on the gravel, his spine is still curved (could it be broken?), the eye that was against the filter seems swollen and a bit clouded over, his fins are moving - he's trying to move but can't. His breathing is steady and seems shallow and his gills are very red. Just a few hours ago he seemed to be the healthiest fish in the tank. I feel so sorry for him, but I don't know what to do. Can anyone help me? At this point, I'm not sure he'll live much longer and I wish I could put him out of his misery, yet if he will live, I want to give him a chance. Help!!!

Sarah

Tommy Gun · 02-18-2007, 11:08 PM

Oh man, I am really sorry to hear about this situation. I know it wont make you feel much better, but things like this seem to happen often...or at least more often than they should.

First, can you tell us about your tank a little bit more? For example, it is cycled...what are your water parameters...what type(s) and number of other fish you have...and any history you can give us. This sort of thing could help you out in the future as far as avoiding this.

To be truly honest, I think the odds for this fish are not in its favor, and I really can't feel comfortable saying you should either wait it out or put it out of its misery. That is a judgement call you would have to make since you can see it first hand.

Finally, what type of filter are you using? The reason I asked the questions I did before is because unless your filter is incredibly strong, a healthy fish should not really end up getting 'plastered' or stuck to the filter intake. If your filter is over powered, you may have some options for dealing with that short of buying a new filter. However, I can see this being an issue for even a 'weak' filter intake situation if a fish is sick and unable to fight the currents.

I really hope things work out for you and your fish. I do not know what advice would be better since this isn't the typical "my fish is sick" where a disease or illness is able to be cured.

alexfevery · 02-19-2007, 08:12 PM

This is just an Idea, ive never tried anything like this but maybe if you try bending him back the way he was, kinda like if your Knee locks up you have to straighten it. I dont know if this might hurt him worse though.

Also, I wouldnt try killing it just yet because it is a trauma injury and not a disease. Fish are able to regenerate tissue and bone much faster than humans. So he may be able to repair himself.

Loman · 02-19-2007, 08:52 PM

Alex,
I am starting to thnk that the aquarium water had a few effects on you.

That is a horrible idea. Do not force a fish anyway that it will not naturally go

alexfevery · 02-19-2007, 10:03 PM

ok ok, I was just throwing it out there.

good luck with your problem.