How does competition affect the process of speciation?

Competition impacts the process of speciation primarily by driving species to adapt to different niches. When species compete for limited resources such as food, habitat, or mates, they may develop distinct adaptations that allow them to exploit different niches within the same environment. This divergence in adaptation can lead to character displacement, where species evolve specific traits that minimize competition, thus reducing overlap in their ecological roles.

As these species adapt to their unique niches, gene flow between them may decrease, contributing to reproductive isolation. Reproductive isolation is a key factor in speciation, as it prevents interbreeding and allows for the accumulation of genetic differences over time. The result can be the emergence of new species adapted to their specific ecological roles, thus facilitating the process of speciation.