When Winter Gives Dead Branches Hair

Hair ice is a rare form of ice that resembles human hair, forming on dead hardwood branches in specific conditions. It requires temperatures just below 0°C, high humidity, and the presence of the fungus Exidiopsis effusa. The process involves ice segregation, where supercooled water in the wood forms ice strands. The fungus secretes proteins that prevent recrystallization, allowing the ice to maintain its unique structure. This phenomenon occurs in forests between 45° and 55° north latitude.

What are the characteristics of hair ice in terms of size and appearance?

Explain why hair ice is considered rare and unique.