perichondrium

The perichondrium is a membrane made of fibrous connective tissue that surrounds cartilage, except at the joints. This membrane is crucial for cartilage growth, as it contains cells that can secrete new cartilage matrix.12

Cartilage itself is a type of connective tissue found in various parts of the body, including joints, the nose, and the ears. It provides support and flexibility, and in embryos, it forms the initial skeleton before bone develops. Unlike bone, cartilage lacks blood vessels and nerves, relying on diffusion for nutrients. The perichondrium plays a vital role in nourishing and growing cartilage.234