A taxonomic review of the Nearctic genera of Perlidae is presented. Fourteen genera, recognized as valid, are characterized in adult male, adult female, nymph and egg stages, Keys to genera are presented for males, females and nymphs; structures utilized in generic diagnoses and keys are illustrated by original drawings or photomicrographs. The world distribution of each genus is discussed and the Nearctic distribution mapped.

The higher classification of world Perlidae is revised. Four tribes in 2 subfamilies are recognized; one of these, Anacroneuriini, is new. All taxa are described and the distribution of each taxon is discussed by zoogeographic region.