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The evolution of mating signals is shaped by divergent roles and selective forces, which allow these signals to become multifunctional. Sexual dimorphism in mating signals can reflect this multifunctionality, where such dimorphism could contribute to both mate recognition and mate choice. Sexual dimorphism in mating signals is thought to arise due to divergent sex roles, driven by the interactions of several selective pressures. It has been suggested that, across taxa, both sexes can be choosy and result in sexual selection. However, whether sexual dimorphism in mating signals can predict its role in male courtship behaviour is still unclear. In this study, we used cuticular hydrocarbons (CHCs) in Drosophila species as a model to investigate the question, with CHCs serving as key chemical cues during courtship. This study investigates the relationship between CHC sexual dimorphism and its role in male courtship behaviour across 10 Drosophila species. Our results reveal variations in the degree of CHC sexual dimorphism across the test species. In addition, CHC detection was found to contribute to courtship initiation in most of the test species, but CHC sexual dimorphism did not predict male courtship behaviour. Notably, a longer courtship latency was observed following the loss of CHC detection, indicating that CHCs may convey information on mate quality. Our study suggests that sexual dimorphism in CHCs is not directly linked to its role in mating signal recognition and highlights the species-specific evolution of chemical signals in Drosophila courtship.