Tissue function/ locations

Simple squamous

Allows rapid exchange; found in lung alveoli

Simple cuboidal

Secretes and absorbs; found in kidney tubules and glands

Simple columnar

Absorbs and secretes; found in the digestive tract

Pseudostratified columnar

Helps secrete and move mucus; found in the respiratory tract

Stratified squamous

Protects against friction; found in skin and cheeks

Stratified cuboidal/columnar

Protects and secretes; found in larger glands and ducts

Transitional

Stretches as it fills; found in the urinary bladder

Areolar

Binds and cushions tissues; found beneath skin and around vessels

Adipose

Stores fat, under skin

Reticular

Supports cells in a mesh; found in spleen

Dense regular

Resists pulling in one direction; found in tendons and ligaments

Dense irregular

Resists pulling in multiple directions; found in the dermis

Hyaline cartilage

Supports and provides smooth joint surfaces; found at joints, ribs and airways.

Fibrocartilage

Absorbs shock; found in spinal discs and knees

Elastic cartilage

Provides flexible support; found in ears

Spongy bone

Provides lightweight support; found inside bones

Compact bone

Provides strength and protection; found on the outer layer of bones

Blood

Transports gases, nutrients and waste; found in blood vessels and heart.

Lymph

Supports immunity; found in lymphatic vessels.