I've had this plant in my tank for about one year. Recently, I noticed a few black spots on my plant - I only have one plant, and it's silk (or some other fabric). Within the last 2 days, the spots multiplied, and now I'm afraid that they might be some kind of mold that's harmful to the baby fish! There are 3 fry that were hatched about a month ago.

This is their safe-haven, and I really like the plant. Is there a way to clean it safely? Will the black stuff even come off??? SHOULD I JUST GO OUT AND BUY A NEW ONE - AND IF SO, DO I NEED TO CLEAN IT BEFORE PUTTING IT IN WITH THE BABIES?

I feel that I MUST take immediate action, before my entire plant transforms from green to BLACK>

by the way, anyone know of a good image host? mine pooped out. or maybe i'm just not internet-savvy.

I think its just algea. You can take the plant out and rub the leaves under some hot water with no soap and see if it comes off. If it doesn't I don't think it is harmful, don't fry like algea?

If it IS mold like you think, you should be able to clean it off the same way.

okay, I'll give it a try!

As Chishower said, it is just a type of algae and is not harmful. Another thing you can do after you scrub it off, it is put it in the sun for an afternoon.