In the depths of the jungle, a newly discovered groundsnake from New Guinea has been given a rock-inspired name by scientists at the Field Museum in Chicago. The snake, measuring approximately 71 centimeters and sporting a reddish-brown hue, has been officially dubbed Slash’s groundsnake as a tribute to the renowned Guns N’ Roses guitarist, Slash.
Slash, known for his lifelong passion for reptiles and his support for zoos and museums, expressed his gratitude for the honor, stating that he never expected such recognition. The naming of the snake after him was a delightful surprise for the musician.
The associate curator of herpetology at the Field Museum, Sara Ruane, shared that her fascination with reptiles began at a young age, inspired in part by Slash’s love for snakes. Ruane recalled reading an article featuring Slash with his pet snake, which planted the idea of naming a snake after him in her mind. This dream became a reality when she discovered the new snake species and decided to name it in Slash’s honor.
The discovery of Slash’s groundsnake dates back to 2006 when herpetologist Chris Austin encountered the species during fieldwork in New Guinea, an island known for its rich biodiversity. The snake, despite its unassuming appearance, proved to be a distinct species through genetic analysis, setting it apart from other snakes in its genus.
While Slash’s groundsnake poses no threat to humans, it faces challenges due to habitat loss caused by industries such as coffee farming and mining. Naming the snake after the rock legend serves not only as a tribute but also as a means to raise awareness about the delicate ecosystem of New Guinea.
In a bid to shed light on the importance of snakes in the ecosystem, Ruane emphasized that understanding and appreciating these creatures is crucial. Despite Guns N’ Roses’ past reputation as the “most dangerous band in the world,” Slash’s namesake is a peaceful forest dweller, contributing to the biodiversity of New Guinea.