DIAGNOSIS. Shell small- to medium-sized; periostracum calcified, with prominent axial and spiral sculpture, axials consisting of fine, distinct lamellar increments and more broadly spaced axial ribs; final lip thickened; suture descending on final whorl. Outer surface of operculum with calcareous granules or beads on each volution and aligned in radiating pattern. Radula bilaterally symmetrical, with central and marginal tooth fields both well developed, and inner marginal tooth cusps not enlarged relative to remaining marginals.
DESCRIPTION. The scaly or lamellar axial sculpture, thickened final lip, and beaded operculum are among the most distinctive features of the living members of this subfamily and the features that most readily distinguish them from the closely related angariines. The nearly radial aperture achieves a somewhat more oblique expression through a terminal increase in the angle between the plane of the generating curve and the axis of coiling. Shells are typically unpigmented, although Arene and related genera have pigmented shells. Interior nacre is well developed. The operculum develops a ragged corneous fringe on the margin of each volution, which is frequently so well developed that it completely obscures the beaded pattern.

Diagnosis. Shell small to medium-sized, deeply umbilicate, interior nacreous. Aperture circular, peritreme complete, suture descending on final whorl; final lip usually thickened. Axial sculpture of sharp lamellar increments and more broadly spaced axial ribs, both kinds of axial sculpture especially prominent deep within umbilicus; spiral sculpture of prominent cords. Operculum multispiral, corneous on inner surface, outer surface with calcareous granules or beads deposited on each volution and aligned in radiating pattern; chitinous fringe produced at outer edge of each volution. Left ctenidium lacking dorsal afferent membrane along most of length. Cephalic lappets lacking, neck lobes simple. Rachidian tooth broad, cutting edge poorly developed; lateral teeth 5, with overhanging tips, bulging laterally and overlapping adjacent lateral teeth; marginals numerous, inner marginals like those that follow.
Remarks. The scaly sculpture, thickened final lip, and beaded operculum are characteristic features of this subfamily.