Embryonic Connective Tissue
1st definitive tissue formed from the mesoderm germ layer
-mucous connective tissue- temporary tissue derived from mesenchyme

Connective Tissue Proper
-loose connective tissue
-dense connective tissue
-except for bone, cartilage & blood, all mature connective tissue belongs to this class

Areolar Connective Tissue
-Supporting & binding other tissues
-holding body fluids
-Defending against infections
storing nutrients in the fat
-Loose arrangement of fibers
-provides a reservoir of water and salt for surrounding body tissue
-universal packing material between other tissues

Adipose (Fat) Tissue
-cells closely packed
-helps prevent heat loss

Reticular Connective Tissue
-forms internal framework (stroma) that can support many free blood cells and lymph nodes, spleen and bone marrow

Dense Regular Connective Tissue
-Closely packed bundles of collagen fibers running in the same direction
-white flexible structures with great resistance to tension
-forms tendons and ligaments

Types of Connective Tissue