Data and Code Repository

Sexual dimorphism is prevalent in nature. Specifically, the evolution of sexually dimorphic mating signals is thought to be shaped by divergent sex roles. However, with males being choosy, how male mating behavior is shaping the evolution of these sexually dimorphic mating signals remains unclear. Can sexual dimorphism in a secondary sexual character be a predictor of its role as a mating signal?Across the <i>Drosophila</i> phylogeny, cuticular hydrocarbons (CHCs) of <i>Drosophila</i> species showed varying degrees of dimorphism. In this study, using ten <i>Drosophila</i> species, we asked the question, if sexual dimorphism in CHCs can be used to predict its roles in male courtship behavior. Our results suggest that while CHC profiles are crucial in some species for courtship initiation, the degree of sexual dimorphism in CHCs is not predictive of their role as mating signals for male mate recognition.