A revision of the genus DeretaphrusNewman, 1842 (Coleoptera: Bothrideridae) is presented. Deretaphrus is a predominantly Australian genus (22 species), although single species are also present in New Caledonia, Bolivia, and the Pacific Northwest USA. Members of the genus are large (5–13 mm) and commonly collected. Deretaphrus larvae are ectoparasitic on wood-boring insects and may pose some utility as biological control agents. Approximately 1,900 specimens were borrowed from 44 collections and museums, representing the majority of the world's total holdings. A taxonomic treatment of the genus was conducted and all known species are herein described and figured. A key is provided to the world species, and information about the natural history and ecology of the group is presented.