Extensive community exploitation caused a decline in Pandanus spp. population, with its natural habitats being converted into monoculture plantation areas, posing a threat to the species. Currently, limited information exists on the genetic diversity of Pandanus spp. from Sumatra, Indonesia. Therefore, the genetic diversity study is crucial for conservation and breeding purposes. The presented study aimed to assess the genetic diversity of Pandanus spp. germplasm from Sumatra using ISSR markers. Seventeen Pandanus species, collected from seven provinces, had their data analyzed using 10 ISSR primers, resulting in 50 total bands. The molecular analysis divided the Pandanus species into two main groups and five subgroups. The highest genetic distance (0.93) was evident between the species P. helicopus-1 from Riau Province and P. helicopus-2 from Bangka Belitung. However, the lowest genetic distance (0.20) appeared between the Pandanus species P. helicopus-2 and P. stenophyllus. Based on ISSR markers, Pandanus spp. from Sumatra can achieve clustering according to species diversity. The latest results provide valuable insights for planning the conservation strategies, optimal utilization, and future improvement of the Pandanus species.

Keywords: Pandanaceae, Pandanus species, genetic diversity, ISSR markers, molecular analysis, genetic distance, Sumatra

Key findings: Studying the genetic diversity of Pandanus spp. collected from various regions of Sumatra, Indonesia succeeded. Molecular analysis divided the species into two groups and five subgroups. Using ISSR markers, classification of Pandanus spp. from Sumatra can depend on species diversity. These findings can help in planning the conservation strategies, optimal utilization of the species, and future crop improvement programs.