Final answer:
Spongy bone does not contain osteons, is always located in the interior of the bone, and is protected by compact bone. It is organized into an irregular pattern of thin columns known as trabeculae, which add strength and lightness to the bone.
Step-by-step explanation:
The type of bone tissue that does not contain osteons, is always located in the interior of the bone, and is protected by a covering of compact bone is known as spongy bone, also referred to as cancellous bone. This bone tissue is arranged in an irregular pattern of thin columns called trabeculae. Unlike compact bone which organizes into rings called osteons, spongy bone has a lattice-like network of trabeculae that provide strength to the bone by forming along lines of stress. The trabeculae also make the bone lighter, easing the work of muscles and also house spaces which may contain red marrow for hematopoiesis.