A new snake has been discovered in the jungle, and it pays homage to a famous rock musician. Scientists from the Field Museum in Chicago have named a newly found non-venomous groundsnake from New Guinea as Lielaphis slashi, in honor of Slash, the guitarist from Guns N’ Roses.
This reddish-brown snake, measuring approximately 71 centimeters, is now officially recognized as Slash’s groundsnake. Slash, known for his love of reptiles, has been described by the Field Museum as a lifelong reptile enthusiast and a strong supporter of zoos and museums.
The guitarist’s affinity for snakes is evident not only in his musical choices but also in his personal life. In 1994, Slash formed the rock supergroup Slash’s Snakepit, which featured members from various renowned bands. Slash expressed his gratitude for having a snake species named after him, calling it an unexpected and exciting honor.
The discovery was made by Chris Austin, a herpetologist from Louisiana State University, during fieldwork in New Guinea in 2006. The island, known for its rich biodiversity, is a challenging environment for researchers due to the presence of venomous snakes and the elusive nature of these reptiles.
The newly identified species, Lielaphis slashi, was confirmed through genetic testing to be distinct from other snakes in its genus. Conservationists warn that the habitat of Slash’s groundsnake is threatened by human activities such as coffee farming and mining.
Naming the snake after Slash not only pays tribute to the musician but also sheds light on the importance of preserving ecosystems. This small forest snake may not pose a threat to humans, but it plays a crucial role in maintaining the balance of the natural world.
While Guns N’ Roses once carried the title of “the most dangerous band in the world,” Slash’s groundsnake is a peaceful inhabitant of New Guinea, now immortalized in the world of rock and roll through its unique naming.