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