Different sensory modalities are required for successful courtship in two species of the Drosophila willistoni group

► Courtship involves many sensory modalities. ► Drosophila nebulosa and D. willistoni differ in the modalities present in courtship. ► Drosophila nebulosa females require antennal olfaction and males require vision for mating success. ► Courtship song contributes to mating success in D. willistoni but is not necessary. ► Sensory modalities important to mating have changed in these closely related species.