Red vs. Yellow Bone Marrow: Types, Functions & Locations

Red Bone Marrow

• Function: Produces all blood cells—red cells (erythrocytes), white cells (leukocytes), platelets (thrombocytes).
• Location: Most bones in children; in adults: hip, sternum, skull, vertebrae.
• Essential for immune function and replacing aged/damaged cells.

Yellow Bone Marrow

• Function: Fat/energy storage (adipose tissue).
• Location: Central cavities of long bones (femur, humerus).
• Plasticity: Can convert to red marrow if demand for blood cell production surges (e.g., severe anemia, blood loss).