What is the term for subcutaneous tissue?

Subcutaneous tissue is primarily made up of adipose tissue, which serves several important functions in the body. This type of tissue acts as a fat reservoir, providing insulation to help regulate body temperature and protect underlying muscles and bones from trauma. Adipose tissue also plays a role in energy storage and hormone production.

The other options represent different types of tissues: connective tissue is a broader category that includes adipose tissue but is not specific to the subcutaneous layer; the dermis is the layer of skin beneath the epidermis that contains connective tissues, blood vessels, and hair follicles; and the epidermis is the outermost layer of skin composed primarily of keratinized cells. Each of these has distinct characteristics and functions that differentiate them from subcutaneous tissue, making adipose tissue the most accurate term in this context.