Types of connective tissue

Connective Tissue
Proper

Cartilage

Bone

Blood

Connective tissue proper has two subclasses: the loose connective tissue and dense connective tissues. The connective tissue proper's main roles are support and protection.

Cartilage has characteristics intermediate between dense connective tissue and bone. Cartilage is tough, but also flexible. It still provides a rigidity to the structures it supports. However, it lacks nerve fibers and is avascular.

Bone has a rocklike hardness to it. Therefore, it has an great ability to support and protect body structures. Bones of the skeleton also provide cavities for fat storage and synthesis of blood cells.

Blood is the most atypical connective tissue. It doesn't connect things or give mechanical support. It is categorized as a connective tissue because it develops from mesenchyme and consists of blood cells, surrounded by a nonliving fluid matrix called blood plasma. Blood's functions include the transportation for cardiovascular system, carrying nutrients, wastes, respiratory gases, etc. throughout the body.