In addressing the characteristics of epithelial tissues, the correct answer is c) epithelial tissues are well vascularized.
Epithelial tissues are indeed unique in their structure and function. They have a basement membrane that supports them (option a) and possess an apical surface, which is the top layer of the tissue that faces the body cavity or the exterior (option b). Additionally, the cells in epithelial tissues are tightly packed which helps in forming a protective barrier (option d).
However, one significant distinction of epithelial tissues is that they are not vascularized. This means they do not have blood vessels running through them. Instead, they receive their nutrients through diffusion from the underlying connective tissues. Therefore, option c is the correct answer as it is not a characteristic feature of epithelial tissues.