In the depths of the jungle, a newly discovered non-venomous groundsnake from New Guinea has been officially named Lielaphis slashi by scientists at the Field Museum in Chicago as a tribute to Guns N’ Roses guitarist Slash. This reddish-brown reptile, measuring approximately 71 centimeters, is now recognized as Slash’s groundsnake.
The connection to Slash is significant as he is described by the Field Museum as a lifelong reptile enthusiast who actively supports zoos and museums. His passion for snakes is evident in his musical ventures, notably founding the rock supergroup Slash’s Snakepit in 1994.
Expressing his gratitude, Slash remarked, “I am extremely honored and humbled to have Lielaphis slashi from New Guinea named after me. It is really exciting. I never would have imagined this moment would arrive.”
The Field Museum’s associate curator of herpetology, Sara Ruane, shared her early interest in reptiles, inspired by Slash’s presence on the cover of Reptiles Magazine with his pet python. The opportunity to name a species after Slash was a thrilling prospect for Ruane, who described it as a privilege few experience.
The naming of Slash’s groundsnake not only pays homage to the rock icon but also sheds light on the diverse ecosystem of New Guinea, where the snake was first encountered in 2006. The island’s rich biodiversity presents challenges for researchers, with the new species blending in among its surroundings.
Genetic analysis confirmed the distinctiveness of Lielaphis slashi within its genus. While the snake poses no threat to humans, its habitat faces pressure from various industries, highlighting the need for conservation efforts.
In Ruane’s view, naming the snake after Slash serves as a reminder of the importance of understanding and preserving ecosystems. Despite Guns N’ Roses’ past reputation, this Slash is a peaceful forest dweller, now immortalized in the realm of rock and roll.