I wouldn't disturb the rocks either. You kill the important bacteria when
you use hot water or rinse too well. Siphon/vacuum the rocks while in the tank. Change less than 30% of the water weekly. Give the fish less food. (Beginners usually overfeed.) We had a fully cycling tank without live plants so that isn't the issue.
This message has been modified
Originally posted on Jan 8, 2018 at 3:24:52pm
Message modified by bluebooks on Jan 8, 2018 at 3:26:13pm