Java Fern black fuzy mold?

[Kelly]

I bought a couple Java Ferns at the garage sale last week and they have a black fury substance on some leaves, anyone know what it is?

[lucius]

Sounds like black beard algae.

[Kelly]

Sounds like black beard algae.

How do I get rid of it?

[lucius]

First turn off you filters and powerheads.  Then spot treat it with hydrogen peroxide or excel via a syringe.  The amount you use will depend of the size of your tank but 2 ml per gallon is usually the recommended amount.  Leave filters off for 20 minutes or so and turn back on.  The bba should turn white in colour and die off eventually.  You can also take the java fern and put in a bath of hydrogen peroxide/water.

Note that hydrogen peroxide or excel can cause some plants to melt but I've never really had issues with java fern.