aura-xoxo

Had a tank for about 4 months now. I followed all the instructions, rinsed everything, let it set up before adding fish, followed the directions for the filter system and the water treatments, and finally added a few fish. (10 gallon). Everything was fine. It got cloudy once but I followed some instructions on how to stop a nitrogen bloom and it was fine again.

Then I changed the filter this last time, same brand, same instructions and it got really cloudy. I was frustrated with it and unplugged the filter, intending to do a partial water change and clean the filter case and put in another new filter. I didn't have a spare so I left it and the next morning it was noticeably clearer. It's been a week now, just running the air and heater in the tank and it is crystal clear. I do have a plecostomus and he is doing a good job because there is no visible gunk anywhere in the tank. I also have one live plant. and 5 Tiger Barbs

So what could have caused the problem, a bad filter? Do I need to be running a filter all the time? How long will it be okay to not run a filter if I keep up all the other maintenance, like vacuuming the gravel and replacing water loss?

My daughter is asking for a telescope for her birthday In a few weeks. I want to spend around $100. I want something that will let her see the stars and a few planets maybe. Nothing too fancy but nothing that will break in a week either.

I have a couple that seem good.

http://www.telescope.com/Telescopes/Great-Telescop...

or

http://www.telescope.com/Telescopes/Great-Telescop...

Any advice would be appreciated