How does genetic change result from speciation?

Genetic change resulting from speciation occurs because populations become isolated from one another, whether geographically or ecologically, which allows them to evolve independently. Over time, as these isolated populations are exposed to different environments and selective pressures, they start to accumulate genetic differences. This can result from mutations, natural selection, genetic drift, and other evolutionary mechanisms acting independently on each population.

As these genetic changes accumulate, the populations diverge more significantly from one another. The differences may involve adaptations to distinct environments, variations in behaviors, or even changes in reproductive strategies. Eventually, these genetic differences can lead to reproductive isolation, where even if populations came back into contact, they would be unable to interbreed successfully, thus completing the speciation process. This accumulation of diverse genetic changes is what underlies the formation of new species and enhances biodiversity.