What is a Metric Litres Aquarium Calculator?
A metric litres aquarium calculator measures aquatic tank volume using metric centimeter or meter dimensions, providing precise volume output in litres for European and global aquarists.
Find practical aquarium volume and sizing guidance in the RSPCA Choosing an Aquarium for Pet Fish guide..
Metric Aquarium Volume Formulas
Centimeters to Litres Formula:
Volume (Litres) = (Length × Width × Height in cm) / 1,000
Meters to Litres Formula:
Volume (Litres) = Length (m) × Width (m) × Height (m) × 1,000
How to Calculate Aquarium Volume in Litres
- Measure Dimensions in cm: Measure internal glass length, width, and water depth in cm.
- Multiply Dimensions: Multiply length × width × height to find cubic centimeters.
- Divide by 1,000: Divide cubic cm by 1,000 to convert to Litres.
- Deduct 10% for Substrate: Subtract 10% for gravel, filter media, and decorations.
Metric Calculation Example
For a metric aquarium measuring 100 cm long, 40 cm wide, and 50 cm high:
Cubic Centimeters = 100 × 40 × 50 = 200,000 cm³Gross Litres = 200,000 / 1,000 = 200 LitresNet Litres (after 10% displacement) = 200 × 0.90 = 180 Litres
Metric Aquarium Size & Litres Conversion Chart
| Tank Dimensions (cm: L × W × H) | Cubic cm (cm³) | Litres (L) | US Gallons |
|---|---|---|---|
| 60cm × 30cm × 30cm | 54,000 cm³ | 54 L | 14.26 gal |
| 80cm × 35cm × 40cm | 112,000 cm³ | 112 L | 29.59 gal |
| 100cm × 40cm × 50cm | 200,000 cm³ | 200 L | 52.83 gal |
| 120cm × 50cm × 50cm | 300,000 cm³ | 300 L | 79.25 gal |
| 150cm × 60cm × 60cm | 540,000 cm³ | 540 L | 142.65 gal |
Metric Dosing & Water Weight
Metric water dosing simplifies medication calculations: 1 Litre of fresh water weighs exactly 1 Kilogram (1,000 grams).
Aquarium Substrate & Equipment Displacement Considerations
When stocking an aquarium, calculating gross tank volume in litres is only the first step. Substrate like gravel or sand, rocks, driftwood, internal filters, and heaters reduce net water volume by approximately 10% to 15%. Always base bioload calculations and chemical dosage rates on usable net water volume rather than gross glass dimensions.