After the discovery of the invasive beetle species, foresters are working to protect the pine _________ that populate the Rocky Mountains.

6
writing

Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?

A

trees-

B

trees

C

trees,

D

trees.

Correct Answer: B

Choice B is the best answer. No punctuation is needed between "trees" and the restrictive relative clause "that populate..."

Choice A is incorrect because a dash separates the noun from the restrictive clause. Choice C is incorrect because a comma should not be used with "that." Choice D is incorrect because a period ends the sentence prematurely.