A recently discovered non-venomous groundsnake from New Guinea has been named Lielaphis slashi by scientists at the Field Museum in Chicago, in honor of the famed Guns N’ Roses guitarist, Slash. The reptile, measuring about 71 centimeters in length and sporting a reddish-brown color, is now formally recognized as Slash’s groundsnake.
For Slash, a lifelong admirer of reptiles and a strong supporter of zoos and museums, this acknowledgment holds special significance. The guitarist’s affinity for snakes has been evident throughout his career, from forming the rock supergroup Slash’s Snakepit in 1994 to openly expressing his fascination with these creatures.
In a statement from the Field Museum, Slash expressed his gratitude for having a snake species named after him, describing the moment as unexpected and thrilling.
Sara Ruane, the Field Museum’s associate curator of herpetology and lead author of the Zootaxa paper detailing the new species, shared her early passion for reptiles and her inspiration drawn from Slash’s affinity for snakes. Ruane recalled a childhood moment when she envisioned naming a snake after Slash after seeing him on the cover of Reptiles Magazine.
The naming of Lielaphis slashi after Slash marked a highlight in Ruane’s scientific career, emphasizing the privilege of describing and naming a new species. She highlighted the unique opportunity to connect with Slash, who shares a profound interest in natural history and reptiles.
The discovery of Slash’s groundsnake dates back to 2006 when Chris Austin, a herpetology professor at Louisiana State University, encountered the species during fieldwork in New Guinea. The island’s rich biodiversity and challenging terrain make it a prime location for discovering new species, including the groundsnake named after Slash.
Despite its unassuming appearance, genetic testing confirmed Lielaphis slashi as a distinct species within its genus. Researchers believe the snake primarily feeds on small lizards and reptile eggs using its enlarged teeth, posing no significant threat to humans.
Conservationists warn that the species faces potential threats from human activities such as coffee farming and mining, highlighting the importance of raising awareness about the fragile ecosystem where Slash’s groundsnakes reside.
In essence, naming the snake after Slash serves not only as a tribute to the rock icon but also as a means to shed light on the diverse and delicate ecosystems that researchers continue to explore and protect.