Connective: AreolarGel-like matrix, 3 fiber types
Wraps and cushions organs, inflammation, holds tissue fluids
Under epithelia
Connective: AdiposeGel-like matrix, sparse, packed adipocytesReserves fuel, Insulation, Support, Protection
Under skin in subcutaneous tissue, around kidneys and eyes, within abdomen, breasts
Connective: ReticularLoose network of reticular fibers in a gel-like
ground substanceSoft internal skeleton to support other cell types
Lymphoid organs
Connective: Dense RegularParallel collagen fibers & few elastic fibers
Attaches muscle and bones, withstands tensile strength when pulling force in one direction
Tendons, Ligaments, Aponeuroses
Connective: Dense IrregularIrregularly arranged collagen fibers, some elastic
fibersWithstands tension exerted in many directions,
structural strength
Fibrous capsules of organs and joints, dermis, submucosa of digestive tract
ConnectiveDense Regular ElasticDense Regular with high proportion of elastic fibersAllows tissue to recoil after stretching, Pulsatile flow of
blood, Passive recoil of lungs
Walls of Arteries, Certain Ligaments, Walls of Bronchi
Connective: Hyaline CartilageFirm matrix, collagen fibers, chondroblasts
Supports, Reinforces, CushionsEmbryonic Skeleton, Ends of Long Bones, Costal
Cartilage, Nose, Trachea, Larynx
Connective: FibrocartilageMatrix similar but less firm than hyaline, thick
collagen fibersTensile strength to absorb compressive shock
Intervertebral Discs, Pubic Symphysis, Knee Joint
Connective: Elastic cartilageSimilar to Hyaline, but more elastic fibers
Maintains shape while allowing great flexibilitySupports the External Ear, Epiglottis
Connective: Compact BoneHard calcified matrix, collagen fibers,
vascularizedSupport, Protect, Lever, Store Calcium/Minerals
Bones
Connective: Spongy BonePorous Bone Tissue filled with Marrow
Produces Blood CellsBones (Long Bones, Pelvis)
Connective: Blood
Red and White Blood Cells in a fluid matrix (plasma)
Transport Respiratory Gases, Nutrients, WastesContained within blood vessels