Abstract
Random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) analysis was carried out to estimate the relationship between the geographical distribution and genetic distance of sago palms growing in the Malay Archipelago. The plant materials contained 38 sago palm (Metroxylon sagu Rottb.) populations, which included 16 spineless and 22 spiny populations. The polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was performed using nine 10-mer primers. A total of 77 PCR products were scored from all the primers. Out of 77 products, five were shared by all the populations and 72 were polymorphic. A cluster analysis using the UPGMA method was conducted. From the dendrogram based on RAPD data, two groups were found. The cluster of group B consisted of the populations collected in the eastern area of the Malay Archipelago. Group A included a sub-group consisted of the populations collected on Sulawesi and Mindanao and the other sub-group mainly consisted of the populations collected in the western area of the Malay Archipelago. The genetic distance of sago palm populations grown in the Malay Archipelago was considered to be related to geographical distribution. Moreover, the presence or absence of spines on the petiole and rachis did not correspond with genetic distance.
https://ror.org/01529vy56 
