Researchers describe a newly discovered nonvenomous groundsnake from New Guinea that is named Lielaphis slashi. The species is identified as belonging to groundsnakes and is associated with forest habitats in the region.
The naming draws on Slash’s public connection to reptiles and his support for museums and zoos, according to multiple outlets. Phys.org notes that the musician—Saul Hudson, known as Slash—has been a lifelong reptile enthusiast and backs institutions involved in conservation and education. Popular Science and Consequence similarly report the species name and focus on the link between the discovery and the guitarist’s interest in reptiles.
While the outlets agree on the species designation and the broader reason for honoring Slash, they vary in emphasis. Some highlight the biology and origin of the snake, while others foreground Slash’s personal background and conservation-related involvement. Across coverage, the key shared point is that the new species’ name reflects Slash as its namesake.
