What size actually matters? Dimensions or Volume?

[yort265]

When looking to purchase fish, do you pay attention to the quoted size of the tank or your actual water volume? I have a Nuvo Fusion 30L but it only has about a 20 gallon water volume due to rock & sand. For example, on some species they'll require at least a 3o gallon tank, but I don't have 30 gallons of water. Any thoughts?

 

[Finhead]

IMO you'd want to look at what kind of swiming area the fish you want to buy needs.

 

[pandagobyguy]

IMO you'd want to look at what kind of swiming area the fish you want to buy needs.

I agree. Its more about how much and what type of space the fish actually needs (tangs need 4 ft of left right swimming space, etc.).