Evolution and genetic control of mate recognition and stimulation in Drosophila

Behavioural, genetic, and evolutionary studies of courtship behaviour, its function and its bases are reviewed for the four species of the Drosophila melanogaster complex (D. melanogaster, D. simulans, D. mauritiana and D. sechellia). The roles of sexual selection and of sensory mechanisms in shaping courtship are emphasised, and particular attention is paid to the role of chemo-sensory factors.