Osseous Tissue Osseous tissue or bone is the major structural and supportive connective tissue of the body. The matrix of bone contains abundant collagen fibers and these impart strength, some flex, and resistance to twisting or torsional forces. This mineral complex of calcium phosphate salts makes bone highly resistant to compression forces. Together, collagen fibers and hydroxyapatite make bone one of the strongest and lightest materials known.
Osseous tissue forms the variety of bones that make up the skeletal system.
In a microscopic view, compact bone always contains numerous osteons or Haversian Systems. Each consists of a central canal through which blood vessels and nerves pass. Surrounding this canal are multiple concentric lamellae or layers of bone. Haversian systems are only found in compact bone. Their specific arrangements within compact bone contribute to the strength of this osseous tissue type.