Some cichlids will position themselves to get the light overhead but
most are OK with light from any direction. This is almost certainly
the behaviour as he is normal when the lights are out. 5 years is not
too old for convict cichlid if the tank is big enough. I haven't kept
American cichlids for years but I know some of the larger ones can
live for 10 or more years in big tanks.

Steve

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