Does cardiac muscle exhibit striations?

Cardiac muscle indeed exhibits striations, which are distinctive alternating light and dark bands observed under a microscope. This feature is due to the organized arrangement of actin and myosin filaments within the muscle cells. The striated appearance is characteristic not only of cardiac muscle but also of skeletal muscle, distinguishing both from smooth muscle, which does not have this striated structure.

Cardiac muscle fibers are also unique in that they are branched and interconnected, forming a complex network that allows for coordinated contractions necessary for effective heart function. The presence of striations in cardiac muscle is crucial for its ability to generate strong and rhythmic contractions essential for pumping blood throughout the body.