View Full Version : growths of java fern
My java fern has grown two reddish brown "feathers" hanging from one of the leaves. I have searched the net looking for pics of algae and fern reproduction, but haven't found any similar photos. They are not thread or hair like but look very much like feathers. Anyone know what they are and if they are a problem?
Bruddah Chrispy
01-23-2003, 11:44 AM
I'm kinda hoping that they're supposed to be there, because my JF has them all over the mature leaves! I'll be watching this thread with interest.
OrionGirl
01-23-2003, 12:13 PM
In some terrestrial ferns, feather-like structures release spores. Could be the same thing?
Here's a link that might help...
http://www.netpets.com/fish/reference/freshref/javafern2.html
Fishiebusiness
01-23-2003, 1:00 PM
i think they're roots from the baby java moss plantlets that are growing on that leaf. Its a from of reproduction.
wetmanNY
01-23-2003, 2:41 PM
Bingo Fishiebusiness!
Soon the leaflets will show. Don't pull at the little plant til it's ready to come away. Probably it will have four leaves by then.
Cool! Thanks! So much to learn....
You should soon be seeing light green leaves of the small plants that will be coming in profusion!!! As the leaves start to die they throw young plants.
Len
Godslayer
01-24-2003, 4:07 PM
Indeed that is how the JF reproduces. I just traded one in that had probably 20 baby plants covering the leaves. They will come in kind of transluscent at first but they will darken up quickly.
Bob
Bruddah Chrispy
01-24-2003, 4:15 PM
Just noticed that many of the threads are starting to sprout little leaves! I worry that they'll just break loose and end up in the filter, but I'll try to save what I can during tomorrow's maintenance.
Not bad for 0.5w/g, yeah?
Fishiebusiness
01-24-2003, 7:04 PM
not bad at all
Mine has also started sprouting leaves. When and how should I remove them and relocate them in the tank?
Bruddah Chrispy
01-25-2003, 7:32 PM
Contrary to my stated plans. I let them be during today's maintenance (although the sprites got pruned way back.)
I'm just going to keep an eye on them until they look like they're going to break free and then try to find a home for them. I used a push-pin on the parent plant to keep it on the bog-wood until it settled in, I don't know how well that will work with a little leaflet.
125gJoe
01-25-2003, 10:49 PM
Originally posted by Fishiebusiness
i think they're roots from the baby java moss plantlets that are growing on that leaf. Its a from of reproduction. Wow, yes, it happened here too...
Bruddah Chrispy
01-26-2003, 10:06 AM
Ah winter, and a young java fern's thoughts turn to love...
;)