What type of muscle tissue is found in the heart?

The muscle tissue found in the heart is classified as cardiac muscle. This specialized type of muscle is unique to the heart and plays a critical role in pumping blood throughout the body. Cardiac muscle cells, known as cardiomyocytes, are striated like skeletal muscle, but they have key differences. They are shorter, branched, and interconnected, allowing them to function as a coordinated unit. This interconnection facilitates the synchronized contraction of the heart, which is essential for effective blood circulation.

Unlike skeletal muscle, which is under voluntary control and primarily responsible for movement of the skeleton, cardiac muscle functions involuntarily. Additionally, it is distinct from smooth muscle, which lines organs and blood vessels and also operates involuntarily but lacks the striations seen in cardiac and skeletal muscles. Understanding the properties and functions of cardiac muscle is essential for comprehending how the heart operates and maintains its rhythm, contributing to overall cardiovascular health.