In a survey of drought-tolerant wild tomato species, plant geneticists cataloged three promising adaptations: leaves covered in ______ roots that branch densely near the surface, absorbing water from brief showers; and stomata that close rapidly, limiting moisture loss.
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
For punctuation questions involving a complex series, first identify the main list items, then examine the punctuation within each item. Use commas to set off explanatory appositives, and use semicolons to separate the larger list items when those items already contain commas.
Hints
Find the renaming phrase
Determine whether “tiny hairs that reflect sunlight” identifies what trichomes are or restricts which trichomes are meant.
Map the list
Locate the three adaptations introduced by the colon and notice the descriptive information within each one.
Choose clear boundaries
Consider what punctuation distinguishes the major items when those items already contain commas.
Step-by-step Explanation
Identify the explanatory phrase
“Tiny hairs that reflect sunlight” renames and explains “trichomes.” A comma is needed after “trichomes” to introduce this appositive.
Examine the series
The sentence lists three adaptations. Each item contains an internal comma followed by descriptive information, such as “absorbing water from brief showers.”
Separate the complex items
Semicolons clearly separate items in a series when those items already contain commas. Therefore, the first item should end with a semicolon after “sunlight.”