In the heart of the jungle resides a fresh addition to the serpent family, bearing a rock-inspired moniker.
Researchers at the renowned Field Museum in Chicago have christened a newly discovered non-venomous groundsnake from New Guinea as Lielaphis slashi, paying homage to the legendary Guns N’ Roses guitarist, Slash.
Measuring approximately 71 centimeters and adorned in a reddish-brown hue, this serpent is now officially designated as Slash’s groundsnake, a title that resonates deeply with the iconic musician. Described by the Field Museum as a “lifelong reptile enthusiast and a dedicated patron of zoos and museums,” Slash’s affinity for snakes has been evident throughout his career.
In a statement released by the Field Museum, Slash expressed his gratitude for having a snake species named after him, stating, “I am extremely honored and humbled to have Lielaphis slashi from New Guinea named after me. It is really exciting. I never would have imagined this moment would arrive.”
The excitement surrounding this discovery is shared by Sara Ruane, the Field Museum’s associate curator of herpetology and lead author of the publication in Zootaxa detailing the new species. Ruane’s fascination with reptiles began at a young age, with her aspiration to become a herpetologist evident as early as fifth grade.
The idea to name a snake after Slash stemmed from a childhood encounter with a magazine featuring Slash and his pet python. Fast forward to her career as a scientist specializing in reptiles, Ruane seized the opportunity to immortalize Slash’s legacy in the realm of herpetology.
The snake’s introduction as Slash’s groundsnake in 2006 by Chris Austin, a professor at Louisiana State University’s Museum of Natural Science, marked a significant milestone in the study of New Guinea’s diverse wildlife. Despite the challenges posed by the region’s dense forests and the elusive nature of snakes, researchers were able to distinguish Lielaphis slashi as a distinct species through genetic analysis.
Contrary to its rockstar namesake, Slash’s groundsnake poses no threat to humans, instead preying on small lizards and reptile eggs with its specialized teeth. However, the species faces a more formidable adversary in the form of habitat loss due to agricultural and extractive activities.
Naming the snake after Slash not only pays tribute to the musician but also serves as a beacon for raising awareness about the delicate ecosystems that scientists strive to comprehend.
While Guns N’ Roses may have once epitomized the “most dangerous band in the world,” this incarnation of Slash exudes a more peaceful presence as it navigates the forests of New Guinea, securing a lasting spot in the annals of rock and roll nomenclature.