A Herpetologist’s Guns N’ Roses Fandom Inspired a New Snake Named After Slash

From a young age, Sara Ruane knew her future would be shaped by two passions: snakes and Guns N’ Roses. In fifth grade, she declared her intention to study reptiles. A few years later, a magazine cover showcasing Guns N’ Roses guitarist Slash alongside his reticulated python snake bridged those interests together.

Decades later, that youthful connection resurfaced while Ruane and her colleagues were studying snakes in the forests of New Guinea. Published in Zootaxa, their research described a new species of reddish-brown groundsnake, officially named Lielaphis slashi after Slash’s passion for reptiles and the natural world.

"The honor and humility of having Lielaphis slashi from New Guinea named after me, as a long-time herpetologist, is truly exciting," Slash stated in a press release.

Measuring around 28 inches, Slash’s groundsnake is a nocturnal snake found primarily in New Guinea and is not considered dangerous to humans. Despite its small size, scientists know little about its behavior or diet. Its large back teeth suggest it may prey on small lizards and reptile eggs, but it does not constrict its prey like a boa constrictor.

The snake's discovery began in 2006 when field researcher Chris Austin encountered an unfamiliar specimen. Genetic analysis later revealed that L. slashi is genetically distinct from other similar snakes in the same genus.

Identifying and naming new species is vital for conservation efforts. In New Guinea, a biodiversity hotspot, many animals remain undocumented. Slash’s groundsnake faces threats from human activities like coffee farming and mining. Recognizing new species helps scientists understand ecosystems, threats, and develop protection plans. For Slash’s groundsnake, the famous name may draw attention, but the discovery emphasizes the need to uncover more species still hiding in New Guinea's forests.