What type of cartilage is known for its flexibility and strength, often found in the ear?

Elastic cartilage is known for its remarkable flexibility and strength, which allows it to withstand bending while maintaining its shape. This type of cartilage contains a dense network of elastic fibers in addition to the collagen fibers found in other types of cartilage. This unique composition gives elastic cartilage its distinctive properties, making it ideal for structures like the outer ear (pinna) and the epiglottis. These areas require a resilient structure that can easily return to its original shape after deformation, which is precisely what elastic cartilage provides. In contrast, fibrocartilage is more rigid and provides tensile strength, while hyaline cartilage serves more as a supportive and cushioning tissue in joints, lacking the flexibility characteristic of elastic cartilage.