I have my lights on a timer and when it clicks on in the morning, all the fish (including my rasboras) zoom to the top and wait to be fed! I do have a heavily planted tank, though, to offer shade, hiding places, plants to nibble on, etc.
You should get a few fake plants. Even if you don't like them, the fish will. Some fish like the security of plants more than rocks. That might make them less skittish.
