Fish Tank Volume Formula:
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The fish tank gallon capacity calculation determines the volume of water a rectangular aquarium can hold. This is essential for proper fish stocking, filtration system selection, and water treatment dosing.
The calculator uses the volume formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula calculates cubic feet first, then converts to gallons (1 cubic foot = 7.48 gallons).
Details: Knowing your tank's exact volume is crucial for proper fish stocking levels, medication dosing, and selecting appropriately sized equipment like filters and heaters.
Tips: Measure the inside dimensions of your tank (excluding the frame/trim) in feet. Enter all three dimensions for accurate results.
Q1: Why measure in feet instead of inches?
A: The calculator can work with any unit as long as you're consistent, but feet are used here because the conversion factor (7.48) is for cubic feet to gallons.
Q2: How accurate is this for non-rectangular tanks?
A: This formula is only for rectangular tanks. Cylindrical tanks require a different formula (π × r² × h × 7.48).
Q3: Should I include substrate/decorations in my calculations?
A: For actual water volume, subtract space taken by substrate and decorations. For equipment sizing, use total capacity.
Q4: Does this account for the tank being not completely filled?
A: No, this calculates total capacity. Measure actual water height if not filling to the top.
Q5: How does this relate to aquarium weight?
A: Water weighs about 8.34 lbs per gallon, so a 50-gallon tank would weigh about 417 lbs when full (plus tank weight).