is there a way to measure the amount of saltwater in the tank?

Question

hydrometer it is, thx guys,

Answer 1

You need to use a hydrometer or refractometer. The volume isn't a good indicator since salt absorbs moisture from the air and becomes more "concentrated" as the salt compacts.

Hydrometers are cheaper and available at most stores that carry saltwater supplies. There are two types, a glass one that floats (it looks more like a thermometer) and a plastic container with an interior float. Both work on the principle that as you add salt to make the water more dense, objects will be more likely to float. The glass one is more accurate, but may be harder to read the measurements (like some people have trouble reading thermometers), plus then tend to turn and bob if you try to read the salininty in the tank. The plastic models can be off if air bubbles attach to the floating needle - this causes the needle to rise making the water appear to have a higher salt concentration than it actually does.

Refractometers are more expensive, and you'd probably need to order one, but these can be more accurate than hydrometers. These work by measuring the amount light bends (refracts) by passing through water with dissolved salts - the higher the concentration, the greater the bend.

Note: These are for use with tank that have brackish or seawater salinities - to test the amount of salt in water if used in freshwater tanks (around a tablespoon per 5 gallons) you'd need a salinity or conductivity meter because the level of salt is so low compared to the others.

Answer 2

Get a hydrometer from the pet store...it's cheap, it's easy, and it works.

Answer 3

you must use a hydrometer. i personally use instand ocean brand. Very easy to use and a must in saltwater.

Answer 4

keep track of how much salt you put in it ? o.O