DARB

My cichlids are rubbing on the rocks like they are trying to scrach them selfs is that normal? Some more then others.

pinkfloydpuffer

No, that's definitely a sign of problems. What are your ammonia, nitrite, nitrate readings?

DARB

I tested my water for ammonia and it showed .15 I don't have tests for the others. I'll take It to the LFS to have it tested and do a 10% water change when I get up. I added four new fish got rid of five. Why the spike I had the tank 11 to 12 weeks.

lew2000

If they are doing it infrequently this behavior is called flashing. if they're doing it very frequently, it is indicative of some type of infection.

HOWEVER - if they're african rift lake cichlids and they're doing it once in a while, well, it's what males will do - however, when ICH causes flashing, it's usually accompanied by white spots on the fish. if it is velvet, there will be a yellowish crust on the fins and around the gills.

pinkfloydpuffer

With any ammonia showing I'd be cautious. Frequent water changes will be helpful. If you can get API's master test kit, it's highly recommended by many.