What is the layer of skin located below the dermis and primarily composed of fatty tissue?

The layer of skin located below the dermis and primarily composed of fatty tissue is the subcutaneous layer. This layer serves several important functions in the body. It acts as an insulator, helping to regulate body temperature by providing a cushion of fat that reduces heat loss. Additionally, it serves as an energy reserve, as the fatty tissue stores energy for the body. The subcutaneous layer also provides a protective cushion against external trauma, acting as a shock absorber for the underlying structures.

The other layers mentioned, such as the stratum corneum, dermis, and epidermis, play distinct roles in the structure and function of the skin but do not consist mainly of fatty tissue. The stratum corneum is the outermost layer of the skin, primarily made up of dead skin cells that provide a protective barrier. The dermis contains connective tissue, blood vessels, and hair follicles, while the epidermis is the outermost layer of skin composed mainly of keratinized cells. Each of these layers contributes to the skin's overall function, but none serve the primary fat-storage role of the subcutaneous layer.