New taxonomic data are presented from a revision of the Syntrichia caninervis complex. Seven taxa have been recognized, based on morphological characters of about 180 samples. An identification key is presented. Lectotypes for Syntrichia handelii and Tortula bornmuelleri are proposed. Syntrichia pseudodesertorum is included as a synonym of S. caninervis var. caninervis. Syntrichia pseudohandelii is reduced to the rank of variety as S. caninervis var. pseudodesertorum. Two taxa are cited for first time for N. Africa, S. rigescens and S. caninervis var. gypsophila, and one for Morocco, S. caninervis var. caninervis. Communicating Editor: Jeff H. Rettig