Turbinaria corals can tolerate turbid water because of the polyps habit of growing on top of the stem. Think of a roof top garden to get the general idea. In amongst the corals lie many sponges and soft corals. Because the density of life is so great, there is usually a severe shortage of living space. It is always interesting to observe the interaction between adjacent corals and sponges.
Most divers see nothing special here.
But right before their eyes is a grand battle that has been fought for many millions of years. They are undertaking silent but deadly struggle against each other. The sponge has an arsenal of toxin chemicals that it exudes in the direction of the coral. It is very effective in killing off corals. Corals on the other hand are able to fight back with counter chemicals and polyps capable of stinging the sponges.