Blood is a complex fluid connective tissue that transports cells and substances throughout the body. It is composed of plasma and formed elements like red blood cells, white blood cells, and blood platelets. Plasma is the liquid portion that makes up 55% of blood volume and transports nutrients. Red blood cells contain hemoglobin and carry oxygen from the lungs to tissues and carbon dioxide back to the lungs. White blood cells help fight infections. Blood platelets initiate blood clotting.