Which type of muscle is found in the heart?

The heart is composed of cardiac muscle, which is a specialized muscle type uniquely adapted for the heart's function. Cardiac muscle cells are striated, similar to skeletal muscle, but they have distinctive features that differentiate them. For instance, cardiac muscle fibers are interconnected by intercalated discs, which facilitate rapid communication and coordinated contractions essential for maintaining a consistent heartbeat.

This muscle type is involuntary, meaning it does not require conscious control, allowing the heart to beat continuously and rhythmically. Cardiac muscle is crucial for pumping blood throughout the body, adapting to the body's varying demands for oxygen and nutrients.