A new snake species has been discovered in the jungle, and it pays homage to a famous rock guitarist. Scientists from the Field Museum in Chicago have officially named a newly identified groundsnake from New Guinea as Lielaphis slashi, in honor of Guns N’ Roses guitarist Slash. This reddish-brown snake, measuring approximately 71 centimeters, is now known as Slash’s groundsnake.
Slash, known for his love of reptiles, zoos, and museums, expressed his gratitude for this recognition. As a lifelong reptile enthusiast, he has showcased his affinity for snakes through his music and personal interests. In a statement, Slash described himself as a “long-time herpephile,” indicating his strong passion for reptiles and amphibians.
The associate curator of herpetology at the Field Museum, Sara Ruane, who authored a paper in Zootaxa detailing this new species, shared her early fascination with reptiles. She mentioned that her interest in becoming a herpetologist developed at a young age, inspired in part by Slash’s appearance on the cover of a reptile magazine holding his pet python.
Interestingly, the encounter with Slash’s groundsnake dates back to 2006 when Chris Austin, a herpetology professor, discovered the species during fieldwork in New Guinea. This lush island, known for its rich biodiversity, poses challenges for researchers due to its dense forests and the presence of venomous snakes that resemble harmless species.
Despite its unassuming appearance, genetic testing confirmed that Lielaphis slashi is a distinct species within its genus. Experts believe that Slash’s groundsnake, which primarily feeds on small lizards and reptile eggs, poses no serious threat to humans due to its non-venomous nature. However, the species faces habitat threats from activities like coffee farming and mining.
Naming the snake after Slash serves not only as a tribute to the rock icon but also as a means to raise awareness about the delicate ecosystem in which these creatures reside. This unique recognition sheds light on the importance of snakes in maintaining ecological balance and biodiversity.
While Guns N’ Roses may have once been dubbed “the most dangerous band in the world,” the namesake of Slash now symbolizes a peaceful coexistence with nature, quietly navigating the forests of New Guinea while etching its name in the annals of rock and roll history.
