What is the connective tissue that surrounds individual muscle fibers called?

The connective tissue that surrounds individual muscle fibers is known as endomysium. This thin layer of connective tissue plays a crucial role by providing structural support to the muscle fibers and enabling the proper functioning of the muscle as a whole. It also contains blood vessels and nerves that supply the muscle fibers, thus facilitating their metabolic activities and responsiveness to stimuli.

In contrast, perimysium encases bundles of muscle fibers known as fascicles, while epimysium covers the outer layer of the entire muscle. Sarcolemma refers specifically to the plasma membrane of a muscle fiber, which helps maintain the integrity of the muscle cell and participates in the transmission of electrical signals. The distinct functions of these other connective tissues highlight the importance of endomysium in the context of individual muscle fiber organization and function.