Just my way of doing it. I use a 4 reel 120 steel tank but only put in 3 reels of film leaving the 4th reel space open. I fill until it overflows, the top 4th reel space holds additional developer that does not contact any film. When I agitate (inversions) the 3 reels slide inside the tank acting as baffles to remix the developer. Developer at the top will always be a little fresher than below everytime I agitate (remix). May not have any real affect but just my way. Regarding the OP's question there have been many responses that could be cause, I will go with the bubbles theory that were not dislodged. Why I love steel tanks, you can smack them good!