Basis of differentiation | Skeletal muscles | Cardiac muscles |
Definition | Are found throughout the body attached to various bones with the help of tendons | Are found only in the heart |
Type of cell | Multinucleated with several peripheral nuclei | Uni-nucleated with a single centrally located nucleus |
Appearance | Appear as long, striated cylindrical fibers with multiple nuclei | Appear as short, striated branched fibers with a single nucleus |
Size | Relatively longer | Relatively shorter |
Shape | Cylindrical | Semi-spindle |
Gap junctions | Absent | Present |
Function | Are responsible for movement and maintaining posture | Are responsible for pumping blood throughout the body |
Control | Are voluntary muscles under conscious control; somatic nervous system | Are involuntary muscles, not under conscious control; autonomic nervous system |
Type of contraction | Contract in response to nerve impulses | Contract continuously and rhythmically to pump blood |
Risk of fatigue | Are more likely to become fatigued with extended use | Are less likely to become fatigued because of the rhythmic nature of the contractions |
Regeneration after injury or damage | Have a higher capacity for regeneration | Have a limited capacity for regeneration |