Remarks. This establishment of this family was an outcome of the first major analysis of the phylogenetics of the Paratanaoidea (Larsen & Wilson 2002). Although relatively restricted in known genera (Araphura Bird & Holdich, 1984; Araphuroides Sieg, 1986; Arthrura Kudinova-Pasternak; and Tanaella Norman & Stebbing) it is well represented by many species, particularly of Araphura and Tanaella, in the deep sea. Several species from bathyal New Zealand waters remain to be described.