Like many reptiles, the painted turtle (Chrysemys picta) relies on external sources to regulate its body temperature. During colder months, it ______ by burrowing into the mud at the bottom of ponds, where the water temperature remains relatively stable and above freezing.
3
readingWhich choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A
survived
B
had survived
C
survives
D
would survive
Correct Answer: C
Choice C is the best answer. The sentence describes a habitual behavior of the painted turtle. The simple present tense "survives" is appropriate for general scientific facts.