If a new recessive drosophila mutation in eye color has been identified, there are several ways to determine if the allele is a known gene:
1. Perform a literature search: The first step is to search the scientific literature to see if the mutation has been previously reported. This can be done by searching online databases such as PubMed or by consulting textbooks and scientific journals in the field.
2. Perform complementation tests: Complementation tests can be used to determine if the mutation is allelic to an already known gene. This involves crossing the new mutant fly with a fly carrying a mutation in a known gene that also affects eye color. If the eye color of the progeny is wild-type (normal), it suggests that the new mutation is in a different gene from the known mutation. If the eye color of the progeny is mutant, it suggests that the new mutation is in the same gene as the known mutation.
3. Sequence the gene: If the gene has not been previously identified, the next step is to sequence the gene to determine its identity. This involves isolating the DNA from the new mutant fly, amplifying the gene of interest using PCR, and then sequencing the DNA to identify any mutations that may be present.
By using these methods, it is possible to determine if the new recessive drosophila mutation in eye color is a known gene.