Which type of muscle is primarily found in the digestive tract?

Smooth muscle is primarily found in the digestive tract and plays a crucial role in the process of digestion. This type of muscle is non-striated and involuntary, meaning it operates without conscious control. Smooth muscle contractions help move food through the digestive system, a process known as peristalsis. The rhythmic contractions of smooth muscle facilitate the mixing and propulsion of food, allowing for effective digestion and nutrient absorption.

In contrast, skeletal muscle is under voluntary control and is primarily associated with the movement of bones and the body's limbs, rather than internal organs. Cardiac muscle, found only in the heart, is also involuntary but serves a different function related to circulation. Striated muscle refers to a broader category that includes both skeletal and cardiac muscle, but does not apply to the digestive tract, where smooth muscle is the main component.