Which type of tissue is responsible for supporting and holding the body together?

Connective tissue is integral for providing support and structure to the body. It serves various functions that include binding other tissues together, offering strength, elasticity, and flexibility, and providing a framework that holds organs and structures in place. This tissue type is diverse, encompassing tendons, ligaments, cartilage, bone, and blood, each serving specific roles that contribute to overall bodily function.

In contrast, muscle tissue is primarily responsible for movement, enabling parts of the body to contract and generate force. Nervous tissue, on the other hand, is essential for transmitting signals throughout the body, allowing for communication between different areas. Epithelial tissue serves as a protective layer covering surfaces and lining cavities but does not primarily focus on structural support. Thus, among the listed options, connective tissue most accurately describes the type of tissue that specializes in supporting and holding the body together.