Correct answer: Cartilage has a rich nerve supply

Cartilage is a specialized connective tissue with unique characteristics that distinguish it from other tissues.

- Cartilage is avascular, meaning it lacks a direct blood supply. Nutrient and waste exchange occurs primarily through diffusion from the surrounding perichondrium or synovial fluid. This limited vascularity contributes to the slow healing properties of cartilage.

- The cellular components of cartilage are called chondrocytes, which are housed in small cavities within the extracellular matrix known as lacunae. These cells are responsible for producing and maintaining the cartilaginous matrix.

- The matrix of cartilage is rich in collagen fibers (mainly type II collagen) and proteoglycans, substances that provide tensile strength and resilience to compressive forces respectively.

- Importantly, cartilage does not contain a rich nerve supply. In fact, it is generally considered aneural, which means it is devoid of nerves. This lack of innervation also contributes to the often asymptomatic nature of cartilage damage.

Therefore, the statement "Cartilage has a rich nerve supply" is incorrect.

Summary of key points:
- Cartilage is avascular (no direct blood supply)
- Contains chondrocytes embedded in an extracellular matrix
- Matrix composed mainly of collagen and proteoglycans
- Lacks a rich nerve supply (aneural)

Reference: Gray's Anatomy, 41st Edition, Volume 1, Chapter 4: Connective Tissue and Cartilage / Page 123-125