The Field Museum in Chicago has officially named a newly discovered non-venomous groundsnake from New Guinea, Lielaphis slashi, in honor of Guns N' Roses guitarist Slash. The species was described in a paper published in the journal Zootaxa by Sara Ruane, the museum's Associate Curator of Herpetology. Ruane cited her lifelong admiration for Guns N' Roses and Slash's early interest in natural history, which inspired the naming decision. The snake was identified through field research and is part of the museum's ongoing efforts to document biodiversity in remote regions.

The announcement comes as part of the museum's public outreach and scientific contributions to herpetology. According to the Field Museum, the species was discovered in New Guinea and represents a new addition to the global reptile database. The naming of Lielaphis slashi acknowledges Slash's long-standing appreciation for museums and nature, as he has previously expressed an interest in reptiles and outdoor exploration.

In a statement, Slash expressed his honor and humility at being recognized with a scientific name. The Field Museum has released a full report detailing the discovery and its significance, including photographs of the snake and images of Slash and Ruane at the museum. The species is expected to be featured in future educational programs and exhibitions.

The museum emphasizes that this naming reflects a growing trend of honoring cultural icons with scientific nomenclature, bridging the worlds of music and natural science.