Which type of cartilage contains a greater amount of collagen fibers?

Fibrocartilage is characterized by its dense composition of collagen fibers, which provides it with exceptional tensile strength and durability. This type of cartilage is found in areas of the body that require the ability to withstand heavy stress and pressure, such as the intervertebral discs, the pubic symphysis, and menisci in the knee joint.

The high concentration of collagen in fibrocartilage contributes to its function of absorbing shock and resisting compression. It is designed to withstand forces that are greater than those experienced by hyaline cartilage, which contains fewer collagen fibers and is more flexible, making it suitable for smoother surfaces found in joints. Elastic cartilage, although it contains collagen, has a higher amount of elastic fibers, giving it flexibility rather than strength. Articular cartilage, while primarily made of hyaline cartilage, also has a significant role in joint movement and load distribution but doesn’t contain as much collagen as fibrocartilage.

Thus, the distinctive structure of fibrocartilage with its higher collagen content is pivotal for its mechanical function in areas of high stress and load-bearing.