Whats growing on my java fern?

[ellner357]

Well quite simply I'm not sure what the **** it is. This is my first attempt with plants. Is it supposed to be here?

http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r232/ellner357/DSCN1038.jpg
http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r232/ellner357/DSCN1037.jpg

[Pamelajo]

I think it might be beard algae. Double dosing with excel usually clears it up. I don't believe it is harmful. But it is ugly and smells, I had it in 3 tanks. Got it cleared up in two and working on the third.http://www.canadianaquariumconnection.com/forum/showthread.php?t=2762

[DaFishMan]

Manually remove as much by hand, then.........

Bleach Dip
http://www.aquabotanic.com/plantsandbleach.htm

Now to determine the cause of the algae so it doesn't return.
Usually excess or lack of a nutrient, water movement, or excess light/photoperiod.
Can also be introduced on a plant brought into the tank.

Good luck :)

[grumpystiltskin]

Its a bit hard to tell from those pics, but it could also be new plants, java ferns grow little plantlets on the ends of the leaves, usually starts with a lot of black or brown spots, then you,.. notice some roots appearing, then new leaves will develop on the end of the mother plants leaves, you can pick them off when they get big enough,
Actually it looks like both, lol you have roots with algae on them, try the excel as mentioned, but leave the roots intact.