TYPE

DESCRIPTION

LOCATION

Mucous

This membrane is constantly producing a thin layer of mucous. Its function is to lubricate movement of food etc in the digestive system and to trap foreign particles in the respiratory system.

This membrane lines a body cavity that opens directly to the exterior.

Serous

Produces serous fluid which lubricates the membranes and reduces friction when organs move against each other or the cavity wall.

They line the body cavities that do not open to the outside and that cover the organs which are found in these cavities. Eg heart lungs.

Synovial

Synovial membranes secrete synovial fluid into the joint cavity, and this lubricates the cartilage on the ends of the bones so that they can move freely and without friction.

They line the cavities of certain joints like the shoulder, elbow and knee.

Cutaneous

It functions in a protective role, homeostasis of body temperature, and provides sensory information about the external environment.

This membrane which covers the whole body, the skin, is the largest organ of the body in surface and in weight.