A major distinction between the connective tissues in an animal and other main tissue types such as epithelium, nervous tissue, or muscle is theGroup of answer choicesability of connective-tissue cells such as fibroblasts to change shape.ability of connective tissues to withstand mechanical stresses.numerous connections that connective-tissue cells make with each other.amount of extracellular matrix in connective tissues.

The major distinction between the connective tissues in an animal and other main tissue types such as epithelium, nervous tissue, or muscle is the amount of extracellular matrix in connective tissues.

Here's why:

1. Connective tissues are primarily composed of non-living extracellular matrix that separates the living cells in the tissue. This matrix can be liquid, semi-solid, or hard.

2. The extracellular matrix is composed of two main components: ground substance and fibers. The ground substance is usually a fluid, but it can also be mineralized and solid, as in bones. The fibers provide support.

3. The main types of fibers include collagenous fibers, elastic fibers, and reticular fibers. These fibers provide the tissue with strength, flexibility, and resilience.

4. The extracellular matrix is a defining characteristic of connective tissue not seen in epithelium, nervous tissue, or muscle. These other tissues are composed mainly of cells and contain only small amounts of extracellular material.

5. Therefore, the amount of extracellular matrix in connective tissues is a major distinction between it and other main tissue types.