Standard aquarium volumes and approximate filled weight, organised by litres to make tank sizes easier to compare.
| Volume | Typical Dimensions (L × W × H cm) | Approx. Filled Weight |
|---|---|---|
| 50L | 60 × 30 × 30 | 55kg |
| 100L | 80 × 35 × 36 | 110kg |
| 150L | 100 × 40 × 38 | 165kg |
| 200L | 100 × 45 × 45 | 220kg |
| 250L | 120 × 45 × 45 | 275kg |
| 300L | 120 × 50 × 50 | 330kg |
| 400L | 150 × 50 × 50 | 440kg |
| 500L | 150 × 60 × 55 | 550kg |
| 600L | 180 × 60 × 55 | 660kg |
Approximate filled weight includes the aquarium, water, rock and substrate. Actual weight may vary depending on equipment, décor and aquascaping.
Helpful answers to common questions about planning and maintaining a reef aquarium.
Measure your aquarium’s internal length, width and height. Select centimetres or inches, then enter your measurements into our aquarium volume calculator to estimate the tank’s capacity in litres or gallons. Remember that rock, substrate and space above the water reduce the actual amount of water your aquarium holds.
Enter your aquarium’s base length and width, along with your desired sand depth, into our sand calculator. It will estimate the volume of substrate required for your aquarium. The actual weight depends on the sand’s grain size and density, so treat the result as an estimate and check the manufacturer’s guidance when purchasing.
The amount of live rock you need depends on your aquarium’s water volume, rock porosity and preferred aquascape design. Our live rock calculator offers three options: Minimal, Standard and Heavy, helping you estimate the amount required in kilograms. Leave enough space for water circulation, coral growth and fish movement when planning your aquascape.
The correct heater size depends on your aquarium’s water volume and the difference between your room temperature and desired water temperature. Our heater calculator uses these measurements to estimate the recommended heater wattage. Always check the manufacturer’s recommendations and consider using a separate temperature controller to help maintain stable and safe water conditions.
Many marine reef aquariums are maintained at a salinity of approximately 35 parts per thousand (ppt), equivalent to a specific gravity of around 1.025–1.026 at the appropriate calibration temperature. Use a properly calibrated refractometer or reliable salinity meter to check your water. Maintaining stable salinity is important for the health of corals, fish and other marine life.
Start by testing your aquarium water to establish the current levels and determine your desired targets. Our alkalinity, calcium and magnesium calculators help estimate the supplementation required based on your tank’s water volume and current and target readings. Always follow the supplement manufacturer’s concentration and dosing instructions, make adjustments gradually and retest your water before adding further supplements. Different products have different strengths, so never assume their dosing requirements are identical.
