Measurements of macro- and micro-features of the Mediterranean gorgonian Eunicella cavolinii Koch showed significant differences in the growth form between colonies from exposed and sheltered localities. These were correlated with velocities of orbital water movement of the habitat. Exposed colonies have significantly longer and thicker end branches, a greater number of polyps per cm branch length and narrower fans. Sheltered colonies show larger fans, thinner branches, and many ramifications. The length of the mesoskeletal club spicules proved to be significantly greater for colonies from exposed localities. Spindle spicules showed no differences. For exposed colonies there was a difference in size of club spicules from the branch to the stem region, indicating a decrease in intensity of water movement near the bottom due to friction effects.Deep water gorgonians (70–80 m) showed both macro- and micro-features similar to those of sheltered colonies. The advantages of the different growth forms are discussed. Observations of similar growth forms for other gorgonian species, as well as for scleractinian corals are noted.