The correct description of cardiac muscle tissue is:
- Striated, branching with intercalated discs.
Cardiac muscle tissue is unique compared to other muscle types. It is striated due to the organized arrangement of myofibrils, giving it a striped appearance under a microscope. Furthermore, cardiac muscle fibers are branched, which facilitates the interconnected structure necessary for effective cardiac function. The presence of intercalated discs is also a defining feature; these specialized structures contain gap junctions that allow for electrical signals to pass quickly between cells, ensuring that the heart beats in a coordinated manner. This combination of characteristics is essential for the heart’s ability to pump blood efficiently.