questions regarding a new 20 gallon fowlr

[first-timer89]

planning on having 16 pounds of lr and some base rock. this is what I am looking at buying. http://www.liveaquaria.com/product/prod_Display.cfm?pCatId=1949&TopCatId=393

can i use play sand to make bed deeper? Will critters come with this and is it good to start with? What kind of lights and how much do I need? Please use simple terms cuz I am new at this.

 

[phases99]

You most likely will get no visible critters with this rock. Any LR from the Pacific has to travel way too far for any macro life to survive. Besides this rock is meant for a nano so you will receive small pieces which may look out of place in a 20g. If you want critters go for Florida aquacultured rock which goes almost straight from the ocean to your house.

Lighting is not a necessity for LR, but if you want to bring out the best of what could be on the rock take a look at some CF fixtures.

 

[first-timer89]

[Besides this rock is meant for a nano so you will receive small pieces which may look out of place in a 20g.]

i have about 15 pounds of base rock for that. will it still look funny?