ISSR marker assisted genetic diversity assessment in natural populations of two endemic orchids Aerides multiflora and Rhynchostylis retusa from Uttarakhand, India

•This is the first report that analyses the genetic diversity of Aerides multiflora and Rhyncostylis retusa from a variety of locations in Uttarakhand.•The study indicating a genetic connection between the orchids that were collected from host trees and altitudes that were similar to one another.•Data can help in developing sustainable natural resource management, as well as conservation and hybridization strategies for A. multiflora and R. retusa.