So numerous in the Mesozoic that this era was called the "Age of cycads and dinosaurs" Declined during Cretatious and Tertiary periods Extinct order Bennettitales - fossils found in Black Hills of South Dakota Order Cycadales contains 9 genera with 100 species Zamia pumila, found in the woods of Florida, is the only United States native Organisms are generally found in tropical and sub-tropical parts of the world Slow-growing, fairly large organisms with a distinct trunk Much variation in height and width Leaves are generally large, pinnate fronds with dichotomous venation Separate male and female plants Limited location suggests these plants are becoming extinct

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