Abstract:
In the southern African genus Acanthopsis, the morphology of the bracts is taxonomically useful at the species level. This
contribution focuses on the taxonomy and conservation status of those members of the genus characterized by inflorescences
with trifid bracts, all of which are confined to arid parts of the Northern Cape Province, South Africa. Three species (A. dregeana,
A. glauca and A. tetragona) and four subspecies are recognised in this group. One new species (A. tetragona) with
two subspecies (A. tetragona subsp. tetragona and A. tetragona subsp. pedunculata) and one new subspecies (A. dregeana
subsp. longispina) are described. Identification keys to the species and infraspecific taxa of the group with trifid bracts are
provided.
