Which cycadophyte group still has living species?

The term "cycadophyte" refers to a diverse group of gymnosperms that includes both extinct and living forms. While groups such as seed ferns and cycadeoids are entirely extinct, the order Cycadales (commonly known as cycads) is the only cycadophyte group that still has living species today.1

Extant cycads are classified into three families, comprising approximately 10–11 genera and 310 species:21

• Cycadaceae: Primarily represented by the genus Cycas.23
• Stangeriaceae: Includes the genera Stangeria and Bowenia.23
• Zamiaceae: A larger family that includes genera such as Zamia, Encephalartos, and Dioon, among others.23

These plants are ancient, having existed since the Mesozoic Era, and are characterized by their palmlike appearance, woody trunks, and large cones. Due to their popularity as ornamental plants, many species are currently threatened by overharvesting and are protected by international conservation efforts.24