The most recent lab contribution is the description of a new species of snakefrom the Andes Mountains of Peru and named after actor Harrison Ford in honor of his environmental advocacy efforts.
The snake, a slender species measuring about 16 inches long, has been named Tachymenoides harrisonfordi. It is a non-venomous constrictor that feeds on lizards and frogs. The snake is pale yellowish-brown with black blotches scattered on its skin, a black belly, and a vertical streak over its copper-colored eye.
The snake was discovered by a team of scientists led by Edgar Lehr, a US-German biologist. The team was conducting research in the Otishi National Park when they found the snake sunbathing in a swamp. “We were all excited to find this new species,” said Lehr. “It’s a beautiful snake, and we thought it was fitting to name it after Harrison Ford, who has been a strong advocate for environmental protection.”
Ford has been a vocal supporter of conservation causes for many years. He is a board member of Conservation International, an environmental organization that works to protect biodiversity and ensure a sustainable future for people and nature. “I’m honored to have a snake named after me,” said Ford. “I hope this helps to raise awareness of the importance of protecting our planet’s biodiversity.”
The discovery of Tachymenoides harrisonfordi is a reminder of the rich biodiversity that still exists in the world, even in remote and protected areas. It is also a reminder of the importance of conservation efforts to protect these species from extinction.
The snake, a slender species measuring about 16 inches long, has been named Tachymenoides harrisonfordi. It is a non-venomous constrictor that feeds on lizards and frogs. The snake is pale yellowish-brown with black blotches scattered on its skin, a black belly, and a vertical streak over its copper-colored eye.
The snake was discovered by a team of scientists led by Edgar Lehr, a US-German biologist. The team was conducting research in the Otishi National Park when they found the snake sunbathing in a swamp. “We were all excited to find this new species,” said Lehr. “It’s a beautiful snake, and we thought it was fitting to name it after Harrison Ford, who has been a strong advocate for environmental protection.”
Ford has been a vocal supporter of conservation causes for many years. He is a board member of Conservation International, an environmental organization that works to protect biodiversity and ensure a sustainable future for people and nature. “I’m honored to have a snake named after me,” said Ford. “I hope this helps to raise awareness of the importance of protecting our planet’s biodiversity.”
The discovery of Tachymenoides harrisonfordi is a reminder of the rich biodiversity that still exists in the world, even in remote and protected areas. It is also a reminder of the importance of conservation efforts to protect these species from extinction.
Lehr, E., J.C. Cusi, M.I. Fernandez, R.J. Vera, A. Catenazzi. 2023. A new species of Tachymenoides (Serpentes: Dipsadidae: Tachymenini) from the puna of the Otishi National Park in Peru. Salamandra 59: 199-206.
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