A recently discovered non-venomous groundsnake from New Guinea has been named Lielaphis slashi after legendary Guns N’ Roses guitarist Slash. The reptile, measuring about 71 centimeters and sporting a reddish-brown hue, is now officially referred to as Slash’s groundsnake.
Slash, known for his lifelong appreciation of reptiles and strong support for zoos and museums, expressed his honor and excitement at having a snake species named after him. The naming was done by scientists at the Field Museum in Chicago, where Slash was given a tour during his visit.
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, known for its rich biodiversity, is a challenging terrain for researchers due to the presence of both venomous and non-venomous snakes that can be difficult to distinguish.
Genetic testing confirmed that Lielaphis slashi belongs to a distinct species within its genus. Conservationists highlight the threats faced by this snake species, primarily from human activities such as coffee farming and mining that encroach upon its forest habitat.
The naming of Slash’s groundsnake not only pays homage to the rock star but also serves as a means to raise awareness about the importance of preserving ecosystems and understanding the role snakes play in maintaining ecological balance.
While Guns N’ Roses was once dubbed “the most dangerous band in the world,” Slash’s namesake snake is far from menacing, quietly inhabiting the forests of New Guinea and securing a permanent spot in the realm of rock and roll-inspired nomenclature.