Keeping it all on the level...

[aqua-nut]

I know aquariums are supposed to be set up level. Just how much out of level can they handle?

Well take a look. The tank is old. I got it free more than 10 yrs. ago. It's set up outside to soak some Manzanita. The new rains softened the ground and, well, things got a little off kilter. :shock:

In NO WAY am I recommending this as a way to set up a tank.

I drained the water and fixed the sinking table. All is nice and level now. Just waiting for the rain to fill the tank back up.

 

[rygh]

Quickly thinking about the forces, I don't see why being out of level would really
make that much difference as far as tank failure.
A bit of extra lopsided force, might cause a bit of sheer stress on the joints.
But compared to the water weight / pressure in general, sure seems insignificant.

Key really seems to be to make sure the surface is flat, even if not level.
So it does not twist the tank.

Of course, yes, nobody would want to set up an aquarium like that.