The fibrocartilagenous layer of the eyelid that contains meibomian glands is known as what?

The fibrocartilaginous layer of the eyelid containing the meibomian glands is known as the tarsus. This structure serves as a rigid support for the eyelid, giving it shape and strength while also allowing for flexibility and movement. The meibomian glands, embedded within this tarsal plate, play a crucial role in ocular health by secreting oils that form part of the tear film. This oily layer helps to prevent evaporation of the tears, maintaining moisture on the surface of the eye.

The conjunctiva, while an important part of the ocular surface, is a mucous membrane that covers the inner surface of the eyelids and the white part of the eyeball, but it does not contain meibomian glands. Skin refers to the outermost layer of the eyelid, which is made up of epidermis and dermis and does not have the structural properties or the glandular functions of the tarsus. Muscle refers to the structures responsible for eyelid movement, but it does not provide the supportive functions of the tarsus or contain glands for tear secretion. Thus, the tarsus is the correct answer as it directly relates to the structural and functional aspects of the eyelid associated with the