What Is This Around My Java Fern?

[Scott23]

I'd had my Java Fern for about a month, bought from Petsmart. It's been doing alright for the most part, but still isn't becoming completely green. I thought it might be what is at the root of the whole plant. I've been told it's a thread clumping the plants together, some said it was normal, others weren't sure. So I was wondering what you guys think it is. Thanks!

 

[meegosh]

Was this sold in a plastic tube with gel stuff in the bottom? It could be that gel that has rotted. I think they tell you to remove it all from the roots before planting. Just a guess...

 

[Scott23]

It was sold with the gel, but I removed it all. This stuff seems impossible to break apart.

 

[meegosh]

Might be a dumb question, is it your substrate? LOL.

 

[BigJim]

Is it the rhizome and roots? I left my big java fern floating in a tank until I had a place for it. While it was floating, it grew long roots and a long rhizome that looked a little like a stick. The plant looks very healthy in the picture, so I wouldn't worry too much.

 

[HN1]

+1. I think it's just the root mass. They will grow into mats over time.

 

[mgamer20o0]

i agree nothing to worry about. see same thing here.