What does the perimysium surround?

The perimysium is a layer of connective tissue that surrounds bundles of muscle fibers, also known as fascicles. This structure plays a crucial role in organizing the muscle fibers for efficient contraction and also provides a pathway for nerves and blood vessels to reach the muscle fibers. By encapsulating these bundles, the perimysium allows for the coordination of muscle contractions and helps to protect the individual fibers within the bundles. Understanding the role of the perimysium is fundamental in studying how muscles function and how they are structured anatomically.

The other options do not accurately reflect the function of the perimysium. It does not surround the entire muscle, which would be covered by the epimysium, nor does it encompass individual muscle fibers, which are surrounded by endomysium. Additionally, it has no relation to the nervous system as a whole.