Aquarium Analyst
Volume Calculation & Maintenance Planning Tool
Tank Parameters
Enter your tank's physical dimensions and your maintenance goals to generate a customized water management report.
Water Dynamics
Account for substrate displacement or unfilled space, and set your target water exchange rate.
Total Tank Volume
64.8
Liters17.1 Gallons
Actual Water Volume
61.2
LitersNet water amount
Replacement Amount
15.3
LitersFor selected %
Visual Analysis
Visualizing the physical composition of your tank and the impact of the proposed water change routine.
Tank Volume Composition
Displays the relationship between used water space and empty air/glass space.
Water Exchange Ratio
Visualizes the portion of water being renewed vs. retained.
Understanding the Data
Why accurate volume matters
Many aquarists estimate medication and fertilizer dosages based on the tank's external dimensions (Total Volume). However, substrate, hardscape, and water level gaps can reduce the actual water volume by 15-20%. Using the Actual Water Volume calculated above ensures you do not overdose sensitive inhabitants.
The Mathematics of Water Changes
A water change dilutes accumulated nitrates and hormones. A 25% water change removes exactly that percentage of dissolved pollutants. Consistent, smaller changes are often less stressful for fauna than large, infrequent shifts in water chemistry.
Volume is More Than Dimensions
Knowing your exact water volume is critical for dosing medicine and fertilizers. Guessing can lead to overdosing your sensitive shrimp or fish.
🪨 The "Empty Tank" Myth
Manufacturers list tank volume based on empty glass dimensions. However, once you add 5kg of Seiryu stone, 3 inches of soil, and a large piece of driftwood, your 60L tank might only hold 45L of water.
This calculator accounts for "Displacement." Why does this matter?
- Medication: Dosing for 60L in a 45L tank creates a 33% overdose concentration.
- Fertilizers: Overdosing nitrates leads to algae blooms.
- Dechlorinator: Ensuring you treat the correct amount of tap water.
💧 The 30% Rule
"Dilution is the solution to pollution." Water changes serve two purposes: removing waste (Nitrates) and replenishing minerals (Calcium/Magnesium) that plants and shrimp absorb.
My Recommended Routine:
- New Tank (0-4 weeks): 30-50% twice a week. New soil (especially Amazonia) leaches ammonia.
- Mature Tank (>2 months): 20-30% once a week. This keeps Nitrates low without shocking the shrimp.
- Shrimp Only: Smaller is better. 10-15% weekly prevents "Molting Issues" caused by sudden parameter swings.
Volume FAQ
Can I just top-off evaporated water?
No. When water evaporates, the minerals and waste stay behind. If you only top-off, the water becomes harder and harder (TDS creep), eventually becoming "Liquid Rock" that can kill soft-water fish. You must remove old water before adding new water.
Does the filter volume count?
Yes! A large canister filter can hold 2-5 liters of extra water. This increases your total system volume, which effectively dilutes waste and makes the tank more stable. It's a "hidden bonus" to stability.
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