Venus Sea Fan
| Name: | Venus Sea Fan |
| Scientific Name: | Gorgonia flabellum |
| Family: | Sea Fans |
| Taxonomic: | Gorgoniidae |
| ID Group: | Corals, Algae |
| Size: | up to 4 ft. |
| Depth Range: | Various depths (0 – 130 ft.) |
| Sightings: | Seen often |
This Sea Fan forms a broad, fan-shaped structure made up of a network of branches that are mostly oriented in a single plane. The branches are flattened at right angles to the plane of the fan, which helps distinguish it from similar species. It often has short, stubby side branches extending from the main fan structure. This Sea Fan's coloration ranges from light brown and yellowish to pale lavender.
Venus Sea Fans grow in areas where the water moves gently and remains clear, which helps them filter feed efficiently. Their wide, flat branches sway with the current and provide hiding spots for small fish and invertebrates.