Genetic diversity of local durian from Tidore Island based on morphological and moleculer data for tropical fruit conservation in North Maluku

Durian is a tropical fruit that has substantial economic value. One of the durian production centers in North Maluku is Tidore Island. This study’s objective was to identify genetic diversity, taxonomic status, and local durian conservation models in North Maluku. Data collection method with purposive sampling technique. Morphological data, including 142 characters (stems, leaves, flowers, and fruit), were analyzed descriptively and arranged by UPGMA dendrogram with the outgroup (D. kutezensis). Molecular data were obtained by using the PCR RAPD technic. Genetic diversity of local durian Tidore based on morphological characters produced 7 clusters with the closest genetic distance to local durian (R4-R10) with a similarity value of 0.887. Genetic diversity of local durian Tidore based on PCR RAPD technic produced 5 clusters with the closest genetic distance to local durian (R10-R12) with a similarity value of 0.977. The value of Tidore’s local durian dissimilarity is close to 10%; it can be assumed that the genetic diversity of Tidore’s local durian is at the level of intraspecies diversity. Gap analysis recommends that Tidore’s local durian conservation model is appropriate with the durian breeding program through an in-situ selection of superior traits and conservation..