Striated Muscle vs. Non Striated Muscle: What's the Difference?

Edited by Sawaira Riaz || By Sumera Saeed || Updated on October 3, 2023

Striated muscle is characterized by visible bands, is usually attached to bones, and is voluntarily controlled, while non-striated muscle is smooth, found in organs, and involuntarily controlled.

Key Differences

Striated muscle, due to its marked bands or striations visible under the microscope, is distinct and notably found in skeletal and cardiac muscle types. Non-striated muscle, in contrast, doesn’t exhibit such visual bands or striations and is essentially smoother in appearance. The fundamental contrast between striated muscle and non-striated muscle extends significantly into their respective locations within the human body and functionalities.

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In general physiological terms, striated muscle predominantly adheres to the body's skeletal frame, thereby playing a pivotal role in facilitating intentional, voluntary movements. Conversely, non-striated muscle forms part of the structure of various internal organs (like the digestive tract and blood vessels) and operates involuntarily, executing unconscious, automatic bodily functions. This dichotomy is essential to comprehend as striated muscles empower our deliberate actions, while non-striated muscles silently manage the unperceived internal processes.

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Examining the anatomical structure, striated muscle fibers tend to be elongated and cylindrical, enabling a prominent, sturdy structure facilitating forceful, directed motion. In stark disparity, non-striated muscle fibers commonly assume a spindle shape, offering a more diffused and subtle motion, as is necessitated by their role in gently propelling internal contents such as blood or food. Here, striated muscle provides raw power and precision, while non-striated muscle provides a gentler, persistent action.

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Focusing on the speed and control of contraction, striated muscle can contract rapidly and with significant force, but for shorter durations due to rapid fatigue. Contrariwise, non-striated muscle contracts with a slower, sustained approach and is resistant to fatigue. This implies that striated muscle is optimized for swift, potent actions, whereas non-striated muscle excels in maintaining prolonged, continual activities without tiring.

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Lastly, regarding regulation and control, striated muscle is chiefly regulated by the somatic nervous system, ensuring volitional control. The non-striated muscle is typically overseen by the autonomic nervous system, securing autonomous, self-regulated functioning. This demonstrates that striated muscle is at our conscious beck and call, performing as per our will, while non-striated muscle quietly performs its duties, liberated from our direct influence or control.

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Comparison Chart

Appearance

Has visible striations or bands.

Smooth, without visible striations.

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Location in the Body

Attached to bones or in the heart.

Walls of internal organs & blood vessels.

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Control

Voluntary control (conscious).

Involuntary control (unconscious).

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Speed of Contraction

Fast and forceful contractions.

Slow and sustained contractions.

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Regulation

Regulated by the somatic nervous system.

Regulated by the autonomic nervous system

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Striated Muscle and Non Striated Muscle Definitions

Striated Muscle

Muscle tissue that exhibits noticeable striations or bands.

The biceps are a type of striated muscle that enables arm movement.

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Non Striated Muscle

Smooth muscle lacking visible bands or stripes.

Non-striated muscles in the intestines help move food along.

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Striated Muscle

Primarily attached to skeletal structures in the body.

Striated muscles in the legs facilitate walking and jumping.

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Non Striated Muscle

Functions involuntarily without conscious control.

The non-striated muscle in our arteries controls blood flow.

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Striated Muscle

Predominantly under voluntary, conscious control.

When lifting weights, we consciously engage our striated muscles.

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Non Striated Muscle

Primarily located in walls of internal organs and vessels.

Non-striated muscles are integral for digestive processes.

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Striated Muscle

Capable of rapid and forceful contractions, but prone to fatigue.

Sprinting heavily utilizes the striated muscles in the legs.

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Non Striated Muscle

Known for slow, sustained contractions, and resistance to fatigue.

The bladder, made of non-striated muscle, gradually expands.

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Striated Muscle

Regulated by the somatic nervous system.

The intentional movement of fingers involves striated muscles.

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Non Striated Muscle

Regulated by the autonomic nervous system.

The pupil’s size is controlled by non-striated muscle.

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FAQs

Can striated muscle act involuntarily?

Rarely, as striated muscles, especially skeletal muscles, are generally under voluntary control.

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What are the visible striations in striated muscles?

Striations in striated muscles are alternating light and dark bands observed under a microscope.

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Why doesn’t non-striated muscle require conscious control?

Non-striated muscle autonomously manages continual internal processes, like digestion and circulation, without requiring conscious intervention.

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Where is non-striated muscle typically found in the body?

Non-striated muscle is commonly found in the walls of internal organs, like the digestive tract and blood vessels.

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Is non-striated muscle capable of rapid contraction?

No, non-striated muscle typically contracts slowly and is optimized for sustained actions.

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What is the primary function of striated muscles in the body?

Striated muscles primarily enable movement of the skeleton and function in the pumping of the heart.

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How does non-striated muscle contribute to homeostasis?

Non-striated muscle regulates internal processes like moving food through the digestive system and adjusting blood vessel diameter.

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Which muscle type, striated or non-striated, is more resistant to fatigue?

Non-striated muscle is more resistant to fatigue due to its slow and sustained contractions.

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Can striated muscle be found in the heart?

Yes, the heart contains a special type of striated muscle known as cardiac muscle.

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How does the autonomic nervous system interact with non-striated muscle?

The autonomic nervous system automatically regulates non-striated muscle, managing actions like blood vessel dilation without conscious input.

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What nervous system regulates striated muscle?

Striated muscle is typically regulated by the somatic nervous system.

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What is the significance of striations in striated muscles?

The striations result from a repeating pattern of units called sarcomeres which are essential for muscle contraction.

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What role does non-striated muscle play in digestion?

Non-striated muscle propels food through the digestive tract via a process called peristalsis.

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How does non-striated muscle assist in regulating blood pressure?

Non-striated muscle in blood vessel walls can adjust vessel diameter, influencing blood pressure and flow.

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What provides the energy for striated muscle contraction?

Striated muscle contractions are fueled by ATP produced primarily through cellular respiration.

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Can diseases affect non-striated muscle functionality?

Yes, diseases like achalasia can impact non-striated muscle function, specifically impacting peristalsis in the esophagus.

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Are striated muscles capable of continuous contraction?

Striated muscles tend to fatigue and are not optimized for sustained, continuous contraction.

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Are striated muscles essential for posture?

Yes, striated muscles, particularly skeletal muscles, play a vital role in maintaining posture and stability.

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Is non-striated muscle involved in conscious movement?

No, non-striated muscle works involuntarily and is not used for conscious movement.

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Is skeletal muscle a type of striated muscle?

Yes, skeletal muscle is a subtype of striated muscle.

Oct 03, 2023

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About Author

Written by

Sumera is an experienced content writer and editor with a niche in comparative analysis. At Diffeence Wiki, she crafts clear and unbiased comparisons to guide readers in making informed decisions. With a dedication to thorough research and quality, Sumera's work stands out in the digital realm. Off the clock, she enjoys reading and exploring diverse cultures.

Edited by

Sawaira is a dedicated content editor at difference.wiki, where she meticulously refines articles to ensure clarity and accuracy. With a keen eye for detail, she upholds the site's commitment to delivering insightful and precise content.