A newly discovered non-venomous groundsnake from New Guinea has been named Lielaphis slashi by scientists at the Field Museum in Chicago, honoring the legendary Guns N’ Roses guitarist Slash. The approximately 71-centimeter reddish-brown reptile is now officially recognized as Slash’s groundsnake.

This recognition holds special significance for Slash, known for his lifelong passion for reptiles and his support for zoos and museums. His deep affinity for snakes is evident not only in his personal life but also in his musical endeavors, such as forming the rock supergroup Slash’s Snakepit back in 1994.

In a statement issued by the Field Museum, Slash expressed his gratitude and excitement at having a snake species named after him, describing the moment as unexpected and thrilling.

Sara Ruane, the associate curator of herpetology at the Field Museum and the senior author of the paper detailing the new species in Zootaxa, shared her early interest in reptiles and how she was inspired by Slash’s connection to snakes from a young age. Ruane cherished the idea of naming a snake after Slash after reading an article about his love for reptiles in a magazine.

The discovery of Slash’s groundsnake dates back to 2006 when Chris Austin, a herpetology professor at Louisiana State University, encountered the species during fieldwork in New Guinea. The island, known for its rich biodiversity, provided a challenging environment for researchers due to the presence of venomous snake species.

Genetic testing confirmed that Lielaphis slashi is a distinct species within its genus. Despite its enlarged teeth for capturing small lizards and reptile eggs, Slash’s groundsnake poses no significant threat to humans as it lacks venom capable of causing harm. However, the species faces environmental threats from activities like coffee farming and mining in its habitat.

By naming the snake after Slash, researchers aim to not only pay tribute to the rock icon but also draw attention to the importance of understanding and preserving ecosystems like the one in New Guinea. This unique collaboration between science and music highlights the fascinating role snakes play in nature, emphasizing their significance in the ecosystem.

While Guns N’ Roses may have once been labeled as the “most dangerous band in the world,” Slash’s namesake groundsnake represents a peaceful resident of the New Guinean forests, adding a rock and roll touch to the realm of wildlife discovery.