Gorgonian corals, also known as sea fans or sea whips, are a type of soft coral found in warm, shallow waters, particularly in the Caribbean Sea and Pacific Ocean. Unlike hard corals, they do not build calcium carbonate skeletons. Instead, they have a flexible structure made of a protein called gorgonin, allowing them to sway with ocean currents. These corals play a vital role in marine ecosystems by providing habitat and shelter for various marine species, including fish and invertebrates. Gorgonian corals also contribute to the overall health of coral reefs, which are essential for biodiversity and coastal protection.