Skeletal muscle tissue is characterized by: Striations*: Alternating light and dark bands visible under a microscope due to the organized arrangement of contractile proteins (actin and myosin). Long, cylindrical cells*: Also known as muscle fibers, these cells are much longer than they are wide. Multiple nuclei*: Skeletal muscle fibers are multinucleated, with nuclei located at the periphery of the cell. Voluntary control*: Skeletal muscles are under conscious control, allowing for deliberate movements.