Final answer:
The endomysium is a connective tissue that envelops individual muscle fibers, supporting them, providing a medium for exchange of substances, and conduiting for capillaries.
Step-by-step explanation:
The functions of connective tissue associated with muscle include support, connection to other tissues, protection, defense against microorganisms, transport of fluids, nutrients, and wastes, and energy storage in the form of fat for thermal insulation. The endomysium specifically is a type of connective tissue that covers individual muscle fibers. In addition to these general functions, the endomysium has a specialized role by providing an optimal environment for the exchange of gases, nutrients, and waste products between the blood and muscle cells. It's crucial for the health and function of the muscle fibers and serves as a conduit for capillaries that supply the muscle fibers with blood.