Cartilage falls under which category of connective tissue?

Cartilage is classified as supporting connective tissue, which is crucial for providing structure and support in various parts of the body. This type of connective tissue includes not only cartilage but also bone. Supporting connective tissues are distinguished by their rigid or semi-rigid extracellular matrices, allowing them to bear weight and withstand tension, which is essential for maintaining the integrity of the skeletal system, joints, and certain soft tissues. Cartilage, specifically, serves as a flexible yet strong support in areas such as joints, the respiratory tract, and the ear.

In contrast, fluid connective tissue includes blood and lymph, which serve primarily in transportation and immune functions rather than structural support. Loose connective tissue is characterized by its relatively low density of fibers, providing a cushioning effect and filling spaces between organs but lacking the robustness needed for weight-bearing structures. Dense connective tissue, while stronger and able to withstand tensile forces, is mainly found in tendons and ligaments and does not provide the same level of support as cartilage in terms of structural framework. Therefore, supporting connective tissue is the most accurate classification for cartilage, highlighting its role in the body.