Which of the following is true of cardiac muscle tissue?

Cardiac muscle tissue is unique in its structure and function, which is accurately captured by the characteristics stated in the correct answer. Cardiac muscle fibers are indeed striated, meaning they have a banded appearance due to the organized arrangement of actin and myosin filaments. This striated appearance is similar to that of skeletal muscle, which is essential for the powerful contractions needed to pump blood.

Additionally, cardiac muscle cells are typically uninucleated, having a single nucleus per cell, which is a defining characteristic that differentiates them from skeletal muscle fibers, which are multinucleated. The presence of intercalated discs is another critical feature of cardiac muscle, as these specialized connections between adjacent cardiac cells facilitate coordinated contraction and allow for rapid conduction of electrical impulses. This coordination is vital for the heart to function effectively as a pump.

The other options cite incorrect combinations of these characteristics, failing to accurately represent the structure of cardiac muscle tissue. As such, the correct choice captures all of the essential features that define this type of muscle, highlighting its specialized role in the cardiovascular system.