Final answer:
The epithelial tissue lining the small intestine, which is specialized for absorption, has villi and microvilli that greatly increase the surface area for absorption. The thin surface layer of epithelial cells in the villi transports nutrients from the lumen of the small intestine into blood capillaries and lacteals.
Step-by-step explanation:
The epithelial tissue lining the small intestine is specialized for absorption. It has many wrinkles and is covered with villi and microvilli, creating an enormous surface area for absorption. Each villus has a network of blood capillaries and lacteals close to its surface. The thin surface layer of epithelial cells of the villi transports nutrients from the lumen of the small intestine into these capillaries and lacteals.