The "Princess of the Deep" — An Elite, Rare Deep-Water Jewel
Widely celebrated as the “Princess of the Deep” (and historically known in the hobby as Benthochromis tricoti), the Benthochromis horii/tricoti ‘Kasanga’ is one of the most majestic, rare, and prestigious Tanganyikan cichlids available. Originating from deep, dimly lit waters (up to 200 m deep), males showcase a breathtaking violet-to-electric-blue body adorned with three vivid horizontal light-blue stripes and exceptionally long, flowing fin extensions. This species represents the pinnacle of sophistication for large Tanganyikan biotope setups.
Ultra-Rare Showpiece: An elusive, highly prized species sought after by advanced African cichlid collectors worldwide.
Striking Visual Appeal: Fully mature males develop vibrant violet hues, horizontal neon-blue striping, and dramatically elongated pelvic and caudal filaments.
Gentle Open-Water Swimmer: Completely peaceful toward other non-aggressive Tanganyikan species, making them a calm, graceful addition to spacious community tanks.
Fascinating Deep-Water Biology: Unique maternal mouthbrooder that produces extraordinarily large, well-developed fry after an extended incubation period.
| Specification | Requirement / Details |
| Scientific Name | Benthochromis horii var. "Kasanga" |
| Common Name | Princess of the Deep |
| Adult Size | Males: Up to 25 cm (10 in) |
| Minimum Tank Size | 500 Litres (~130 Gallons) (Minimum 150 cm length, 60 cm height) |
| Temperament | Peaceful community dweller; strictly conspecific territorial (Keep 1 Male with multiple females) |
| Ideal Tank Setup | Dimly lit aquarium with fine sand substrate, open swimming space, and large flat-topped rocks/slates |
| Diet | Carnivorous planktivore (Prefers Cyclops, Daphnia, Mysis, enriched Artemia, and high-grade micro-pellets/flakes) |
| Ideal Tankmates | Peaceful sand-dwellers (Xenotilapia, Ectodus, Enantiopus) and calm open-water cichlids (Cyprichromis). Avoid boisterous or fin-nipping species. |