Although this is the wrong place for this thread, I'll say this.
Filter are not essential for a cycled tank. It is possible to let the bacteria build up on surfaces in the tank. Google "all natural aquariums". After a little reading you will find that many people do not use filters at all and simply keep the tank nicely planted. But even the plants are not necessary ( I advise them though) if you keep up with water changes. HOWEVER!!! If you want to run a tank without a filter your tank will go through a cycle again. Make sure you are prepared for this. Also if you add chlorinated water to the tank you will kill the BB and without a filter full of BB to keep the toxic levels in check you may be in trouble. Be cautious and dedicate yourself to tank maintenance if you try to run a tank without a filter.
