All known shore-fly species (5) of the genus Philotelma Becker are revised, including P. tecopa, new species (California. Inyo: Tecopa Hot Spring (36°52.7'N, 116°13.9'W)). Philotelma is only known from the Northern Hemisphere, and the included species are generally more widespread than previously known. With discovery that some species are more widespread and correction of the identification of others, the following new synonymies are proposed: P. alaskense Cresson = P. defectum (Haliday) and P. strandi Duda and P. tamarani Zatwarnicki & Báez = P. parvum (Kramer). The Afrotropical species, Philotelma mirabilis Canzoneri & Meneghini, is transferred to the genus Lamproscatella Hendel (new combination). A lectotype is designated for Ephydra defecta Haliday. For perspective and to facilitate identification, a key to the genera of Scatellini is provided. All species are illustrated and distribution maps are also provided.