In the jungle, a recently discovered non-venomous groundsnake from New Guinea has been christened Lielaphis slashi by scientists at the Field Museum in Chicago, paying homage to Guns N’ Roses guitarist Slash. The reddish-brown reptile, measuring about 71 centimeters, is now officially recognized as Slash’s groundsnake.
This recognition holds special meaning for Slash, described by the Field Museum as a lifelong reptile enthusiast and avid supporter of zoos and museums. His affinity for snakes has been evident in both his personal life and musical projects. Notably, he founded the rock supergroup Slash’s Snakepit in 1994, featuring members from Guns N’ Roses, Alice in Chains, and Jellyfish.
Expressing his gratitude, Slash acknowledged the honor of having a snake species named after him, stating, “I am extremely honored and humbled to have Lielaphis slashi from New Guinea named after me.” This unexpected gesture left him feeling excited and appreciative of the recognition.
The Field Museum’s associate curator of herpetology, Sara Ruane, shared her early fascination with reptiles, which eventually led her to become a scientist specializing in identifying new species. Ruane’s inspiration for naming a snake after Slash stemmed from a childhood memory of the musician featured in a magazine with his pet python. The decision to name the snake after Slash was a fulfilling moment in her career.
Slash’s groundsnake was first encountered in 2006 during fieldwork in New Guinea by Chris Austin, a professor and curator of herpetology at Louisiana State University’s Museum of Natural Science. The island’s rich biodiversity presents challenges for researchers due to the diverse snake species, some of which are venomous and difficult to distinguish from harmless ones. Despite its unassuming appearance, genetic analysis confirmed that Lielaphis slashi is a distinct species within its genus.
Conservationists emphasize the importance of protecting Slash’s groundsnake from habitat destruction caused by industries like coffee farming and mining. Naming the snake after Slash not only pays tribute to the musician but also raises awareness about the fragile ecosystem in which this unique species thrives.
In conclusion, while Guns N’ Roses may have once been labeled as “the most dangerous band in the world,” Slash’s groundsnake represents a quieter, less threatening presence in the forests of New Guinea, symbolizing a harmonious blend of nature and rock culture.