There are four basic types of animal tissues: epithelial, connective, muscular, and nervous tissue. Epithelial tissue primarily covers body surfaces, lines cavities, and forms glands, providing protection. Muscular tissue is responsible for movement. Nervous tissue transmits electrical signals throughout the body. Connective tissue is characterized by an abundance of extracellular matrix and plays crucial roles in binding, supporting, and protecting body organs. Examples include bone, cartilage, blood, and adipose tissue, all of which provide structural support and protection. Therefore, connective tissue helps in both protection and support of the body.