Tank and water quality

Hey guys I have some questions and need to confirm somethings about my tank. stuff about my tank. Well first of all, my parameters are all 0 again. I don't know what it is. Someone told me that it could be all of the algae, but I didn't think I had that much. I'm hoping there's nothing wrong. My female has been coming onto the land lately. Second of all with a new bare bottom tank, it so easy to see the waste. Should really worry that much about it? I mean i remove big pieces, but i can never seem to get all of it. It's not going to be spotless. Third, I was wondering if with weekly 20% water changes and as long as I remove all of the waste, I could use a 90 gph filter for my half filled 29 gallon. I am always cleaning it out because it gets clogged up with gunk. And...hmmm...what am I on now? Number 15? Just kidding. Anyways, I also saw some clearish looking stuff in my tank. It kind of looked like hair. Not like a strand of hair, but more like a lock. Anyone know what this might be? Thanks.

For how long has the tank been set up?

It's been set-up for a couple months now. I had to take the cartridge out a week or so ago. That may have sent it into some kind of mini cycle I guess. I did water changes everyday after I changed the cartridge just incase.

Sorry for double posting, but i fed them tonight and they still seem to have their appetite! So i guess that's a good sign.