A new snake species discovered in the jungle has been named after Guns N’ Roses guitarist Slash. Known as Lielaphis slashi, the approximately 71-centimeter long reddish-brown snake has been officially designated Slash’s groundsnake by scientists at the Field Museum in Chicago.
Slash, a lifelong reptile enthusiast and supporter of zoos and museums, expressed his honor and excitement at having a snake named after him. The guitarist, known for his band Slash’s Snakepit and his affinity for reptiles, described the recognition as unexpected and thrilling.
The naming of the snake was led by Sara Ruane, the Field Museum’s associate curator of herpetology. Ruane, who had a passion for reptiles from a young age, was inspired by Slash’s love for snakes when she first saw him featured with his pet python in a magazine. Years later, she fulfilled her wish to name a snake after him as a scientist.
Slash’s groundsnake, initially discovered in 2006 in New Guinea by herpetologist Chris Austin, was found to be a unique species through genetic analysis. The snake, although harmless to humans, faces threats from habitat destruction due to activities like coffee farming and mining.
By naming the snake after Slash, scientists aim to draw attention to the importance of snakes in the ecosystem and the need for conservation efforts in the snake’s habitat.
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