In the dense jungle of New Guinea, a newly identified non-venomous groundsnake has been named after the legendary Guns N’ Roses guitarist, Slash. The scientists at the Field Museum in Chicago have officially designated the approximately 71-centimeter reddish-brown snake as Slash’s groundsnake, dubbing it Lielaphis slashi in honor of the rock icon.
For Slash, who has always been an admirer of reptiles, this recognition holds special meaning. The Field Museum describes him as a dedicated reptile enthusiast and a strong advocate for zoos and museums. Throughout his career, Slash has displayed his fascination with snakes, evident in his music and his formation of the rock supergroup, Slash’s Snakepit, back in 1994.
Expressing his gratitude, Slash mentioned, “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.”
Sara Ruane, the Field Museum’s associate curator of herpetology and senior author of the Zootaxa paper detailing the new species, shared her early passion for reptiles, citing Slash’s influence on her interest in snakes from a young age. Ruane recalled a magazine cover featuring Slash with his pet snake, which sparked the idea of naming a snake after him.
The discovery of Slash’s groundsnake dates back to 2006 when Chris Austin, a professor and curator of herpetology at Louisiana State University, encountered the species during fieldwork in New Guinea. The island, known for its diverse wildlife, poses challenges for researchers due to its dense forests and potentially venomous snake species.
Genetic analysis confirmed the uniqueness of Lielaphis slashi among its genus, distinguishing it as a separate species. Despite its enlarged teeth for hunting small reptiles and eggs, Slash’s groundsnake is harmless to humans, lacking venom capable of causing harm. However, the species faces threats from habitat destruction caused by agricultural and mining activities in the region.
By naming the snake after Slash, scientists aim to draw attention to the fragile ecosystem of New Guinea and the importance of conservation efforts. This act not only honors the rock star but also sheds light on the ongoing research and preservation of the region’s biodiversity.
In conclusion, while Guns N’ Roses may have once been known as the “most dangerous band in the world,” this particular Slash’s legacy lies in a peaceful forest snake navigating the jungles of New Guinea, now immortalized in the world of rock and roll taxonomy.
