Final answer:
Fibroblasts are the most abundant cell type in areolar tissue, which is a type of connective tissue proper. They are crucial for producing the fibrous tissues of the extracellular matrix.
Step-by-step explanation:
The areolar tissue is a type of connective tissue proper that shows little specialization. Among the various cell types it contains, such as adipocytes, macrophages, mast cells, and others, the fibroblast is the most abundant.
Fibroblasts are present in all connective tissue proper and are responsible for producing the fibrous tissues that form the extracellular matrix. By secreting polysaccharides and proteins, they generate a viscous ground substance within the matrix. Following fibroblasts, fibrocytes, which are a less active form of fibroblast, are the second most common cell type found in connective tissue proper.