Which type of connective tissue is characterized by the presence of lacunae, calcium salts, and blood vessels?

• A. Areolar connective tissue
• B. Adipose tissue
• C. Bone (osseous) tissue
• D. Cartilage

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the characteristics of the connective tissue described in the problem. The presence of lacunae, calcium salts, and blood vessels are key features to identify the type of tissue.
2. Step 2: Recall that lacunae are small spaces within the matrix of certain connective tissues where cells reside. Both bone (osseous) tissue and cartilage have lacunae, but their matrix composition differs.
3. Step 3: Note that calcium salts are a defining feature of bone tissue. These salts, primarily hydroxyapatite, provide rigidity and strength to the matrix of bone tissue, distinguishing it from cartilage, which lacks calcium salts.
4. Step 4: Consider the presence of blood vessels. Bone tissue is vascularized, meaning it contains blood vessels that supply nutrients and remove waste. Cartilage, on the other hand, is avascular and relies on diffusion for nutrient exchange.
5. Step 5: Based on these characteristics—lacunae, calcium salts, and blood vessels—the connective tissue described in the problem is bone (osseous) tissue.