Fascicle Orientation

Parallel, Pennate, Circular, Fusiform, Triangular

All Fascicle Orientations

Parallel

Fascicle Orientations, uniform width and parallel fascicles

Triangular

Fascicle Orientations,broad at one end with fascicles converging on the other, narrower end

Circular

Fascicle Orientations, fascicles form rings around body openings and passages, When contract, constrict the opening

Fusiform

Fascicle Orientations, thick in the middle with fascicles converging on each tapered end

Pennate

Fascicle Orientations, feather-shaped; fascicles attach obliquely on a tendon that runs full length of muscle

Unipennate

Fascicle Orientations subtype, fascicles approach tendon from one side

Bipennate

Fascicle Orientations subtype, fascicles approach tendon from both sides

Multipennate

Fascicle Orientations subtype, bunches of fascicles converge to single point