An unfamiliar snake has been discovered in the forest, and its name will ring a bell with rock enthusiasts.
Researchers at the Field Museum in Chicago have bestowed the name Lielaphis slashi upon a recently identified, harmless groundsnake from New Guinea, in tribute to Guns N’ Roses guitarist Slash.
This reddish-brown reptile, measuring about 71 centimeters in length, is now officially recognized as Slash’s groundsnake.
The acknowledgment holds personal significance for Slash, given his lifelong passion for reptiles and his consistent support for zoos and museums.
Slash’s affinity for snakes has been evident in his music and public persona. In 1994, he founded the rock ensemble Slash’s Snakepit, featuring members from Guns N’ Roses, Alice in Chains, and Jellyfish.
Expressing his gratitude, Slash referred to himself as a “long-time herpephile,” highlighting his deep fascination with reptiles and amphibians.
Herpetologist Sara Ruane elucidates the reasoning behind naming a snake species after the renowned musician. She also sheds light on the misunderstood nature of snakes and their ecological significance.
“I am incredibly honored and privileged to have Lielaphis slashi from New Guinea christened after me,” Slash remarked.
“This is tremendously exciting. I could never have anticipated this moment.”
An enduring fascination with snakes
Sara Ruane, the Field Museum’s associate curator of herpetology and primary author of a Zootaxa publication detailing the new species, shared that her fascination with reptiles began at a young age.
“By fifth grade, I was already telling my teacher that I would pursue a career as a herpetologist,” she stated in an interview with CBC News.
At the age of 12, Ruane received a copy of Reptiles Magazine featuring Slash holding his pet reticulated python on the cover.
“I thought to myself, it would be fun to name a snake after Slash. That seemed like an enjoyable idea,” she recalled.
Having read the article where Slash talked about his love for reptiles, zoos, museums, and natural history, Ruane, now a scientist who occasionally bestows names upon newly identified reptile species, remembered her earlier aspiration.
“For me, having the opportunity to describe and name a species is a significant privilege,” Ruane emphasized. “This is an opportunity that eludes most individuals.”
Designating the snake in honor of Slash, she added, was the crowning achievement of the project.
