Q.Is The Leaf Sprig In The Attached Photo An Atypical Form Of The Staghorn Fern From Which It Was Taken Or A Symptom Of A Disease Or
condition The leaf sprig in the photo is part of a cluster of such leaves growing amidst typical bunches of staghorn fern on a live oak trunk.
Certified GKH Gardening Expert
That is quite odd. I'd start with the easy factors first. Testing pH to ensure that it is not too acidic and testing for too much nitrogen would be where I would start. If those come back within range then I'd definitely suspect disease.
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/soil-fertilizers/testing-soil.htm
There is another issue that very much resembles what you are seeing, though. Mosaic virus is VERY uncommon in Staghorns, but it doesn't mean that it is impossible. This might require testing from your local extension service, but usually it has clear symptoms. Tobacco mosaic might be the most likely candidate among the plant viral infection.
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/disease/tobacco-mosaic-disease.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/info/what-is-extension-service.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/foliage/staghorn-fern/staghorn-fern-information.htm
