Elastic cartilage

Elastic cartilage is a type of cartilage present in the outer ear, larynx, and epiglottis which contains fibers made of elastin.

Elastic cartilage, histologically is similar to hyaline cartilage but contains a plethora of elastic fibers. These fibers form bundles that appear dark under a microscope. These fibers give elastic cartilage great flexibilty so that it is able to withstand repeated bending. It is found in the epiglottis (part of the larynx) and the pinnae (the external ear flaps of many mammals including man). Elastin fibers stain dark purple/black with Verhoeff stain.