What type of muscle tissue is found in the walls of the heart?

Cardiac muscle tissue is the specialized type of muscle found exclusively in the walls of the heart. It is unique because it possesses both characteristics of skeletal and smooth muscle. Cardiac muscle tissue is striated, similar to skeletal muscle, but it operates involuntarily like smooth muscle, meaning it is not under conscious control.

This type of tissue is crucial for the heart's function, allowing it to contract rhythmically and maintain a steady heartbeat. Cardiac muscle cells, known as cardiomyocytes, are interconnected by intercalated discs that facilitate synchronized contractions, essential for effective pumping of blood throughout the body.

This distinctive structure and function highlight the importance of cardiac muscle tissue in the circulatory system, differentiating it from other types of muscle such as skeletal and smooth muscle, which serve different functions in the body.