12 species in 6 genera. Mostly large (1 to 2 mm), long-legged mites of leaf litter and rotting wood, but also tiny mites with corkscrew setae (Damaeobelba minutissima). 

Dorsal setae on notogaster (abdomen) arranged into 2 longitudinal lines of 8 (line may be curved). Rutella of mouthparts wedge-shaped. Nymphs usually have piles of debris on their backs, possibly as camouflage. 

Records must include good quality photographs showing the characteristic features of this family. 

Most species live in plant litter, mosses, decaying wood and organic soil layers. The family is composed of fungivores which have an important role in regulation of fungi that are harmful for plants.

Common but under recorded in Britain.

Fairly frequent but under recorded in Leicestershire and Rutland.