Working Out Tank Capacity

[loach boy]

hi all

can someone tell me how to work out my tank capacity? I know to multiply lengthxwidthxheight but do I use the physical tank dimensions (internal or external) or the volume of water (allowing for unfilled portion at top/substrate etc without getting too concerned over various displacements of bogwood etc)?

for example

• If I use tank dimensions (72"x18"x15") this works out at around 320 litres or 71ukg/85usg
• If I use the water volume (approx) this works out at around 250l or 55ukg/66usg

If I'm then working out my lighting requirements (aiming for 2wpg planted tank) this can make a big difference in my requirements

Also, how much difference do reflectors make (is it better for less tubes but reflected or more tubes unreflected - limited hood space)

thanks

 

[lljdma06]

I usually use tank dimensions to calculate WPG, but here is a link to a websites that feature different types of lighting calculators, based on the lighting level you want and the bulbs you choose.

http/woo.gotdns.com/Aquarium/Lighting.htm

http/users.bluecarrots.com/dave.mann/pet...in/tankcalc.htm

You'll be fine with any value between 1.5 and 2WPG with your size aquarium. I'd actually aim quite a bit lower, especially if this is your first planted tank, 1-1.5WPG. Larger tanks do not need as much lighting to grow the same plants as a tank half it's size. Less tubes but well-reflected is better IMO, than more tubes with no reflection, otherwise the light will go all over the place, instead of down to the plants, where it's supposed to be.

If you have any further questions, feel free to PM me, or visit the planted section in this forum. There are a lot of experience hobbiests in that section that specialize in planted tanks. There are also several pinned articles that you should look into. Many of us, myself included, also keep journals that detail complete setups.

Good luck to you,

llj

 

[xing]

I've got a similar setup and had no real problems growing with a couple of tubes. Unless you really want to grow high light plants it may be worth staying as you are. As i understand it you may get lots of algae problems without also getting co2.

 

[loach boy]

thanks for the links - some useful reading there.

I currently have 90w reflected. I think if I upgrade to 116w reflected with a 2x58w (5') ballast I'll be nearer where I need to be (26w doesn't sound a lot but its a 29% increase on current lighting). Other alternative of going for 3x58w but without refelctors, but after reading your advice I'd probably be better sticking with 2 tubes reflected. Anything else just gets silly in terms of cost (for me anyway)

BTW - I already have pressurised co2, hopefully it will beat the BBA algea and hair algae I've got (how long?). Won't upgrade lighting until I've sorted it. otherwise it just gets worse

thnaks guys