The sarcotesta is the outermost fleshy covering of Cycad seeds. Below this layer is usually the sclerotesta, the coating that makes direct contact with the cycad seed. In some species, however, there is an intermediate layer that is thought to be used in water retention and storage. Families Cycadaceaecycas family Stangeriaceaestangeria family Zamiaceaezamia family Cycads are an ancient group of seed plants characterized by a large crown of compound leaves and a stout trunk. ...