In the depths of the jungle, a newly discovered groundsnake from New Guinea has been bestowed with a rock-inspired moniker. Researchers at the Field Museum in Chicago have christened the non-venomous snake as Lielaphis slashi, paying homage to Guns N’ Roses guitarist Slash.
Measuring about 71 centimeters and sporting a reddish-brown hue, the snake is now formally recognized as Slash’s groundsnake. Slash, a self-professed reptile enthusiast and advocate for zoos and museums, expressed his gratitude for the tribute, labeling himself as a “long-time herpephile.”
The Field Museum’s associate curator of herpetology, Sara Ruane, who authored a paper in Zootaxa detailing the new species, shared her early fascination with reptiles, inspired by an article featuring Slash in Reptiles Magazine. Ruane’s dream of naming a snake after the iconic guitarist became a reality, adding a personal touch to her scientific work.
The newly named groundsnake was first encountered in 2006 during fieldwork in New Guinea by Chris Austin, a herpetology professor. The island’s lush forests, although reminiscent of a “Paradise City,” present challenges for researchers due to the presence of venomous snakes and the elusive nature of groundsnakes.
Genetic analysis confirmed that Lielaphis slashi is a distinct species within its genus. Despite its enlarged teeth for prey capture, the snake poses no threat to humans. However, habitat loss from industries like coffee farming and mining poses a significant risk to its survival.
Naming the snake after Slash serves not only as a nod to the rock legend but also as a means to raise awareness about the fragile ecosystem of New Guinea. Through this act, scientists aim to highlight the importance of snakes in maintaining ecological balance and biodiversity. This forest-dwelling snake, bearing the name of a rock icon, now stands as a testament to the intricate connection between music and nature.