Final answer:
The pericardium consists of two main layers: the fibrous pericardium and the serous pericardium. The fibrous pericardium is made of tough connective tissue and the serous pericardium consists of two layers: the parietal pericardium and the visceral pericardium.
Step-by-step explanation:
The pericardium, which literally translates as “around the heart,” consists of two distinct sublayers: the fibrous pericardium and the serous pericardium. The fibrous pericardium is made of tough, dense connective tissue that protects the heart and maintains its position in the thorax. The more delicate serous pericardium consists of two layers: the parietal pericardium, which is fused to the fibrous pericardium, and an inner visceral pericardium, or epicardium, which is fused to the heart.