Shakira, Johnny Cash and Beyoncé: some newly discovered insect species have been named after famous people by entomologists. Discover a selection of the funniest cases.
Entomologists also have a sense of humor. This can be seen in the names given to some newly discovered insect species. Here are some animals that have the same name as a celebrity.
The beetle Agra schwarzeneggeri
It is in Costa Rica that the beetle Agra schwarzeneggeri was discovered in 2001. This small specimen has the particularity of having a particularly developed middle femur. This corresponds to the biceps in humans. Naturally, the specimen was named after the famous actor with muscles of steel Arnold Schwarzenegger . According to legend, Arnold Schwarzenegger personally thanked the scientist who came up with the name.
The fly Scaptia beyonceae
Scaptia beyonceae.
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This small fly has a golden tip on its abdomen, making this specimen particularly remarkable. This small fly was first seen in Australia in 1981, but was not scientifically described until 2011.
According to the rules of the International Commission on Zoological Nomenclature, scientists can choose to honor a person by naming an insect, so that’s what was done here in tribute to the famous singer. Beyoncé .
The Spider Calponia harrisonfordi
The Spider Calponia harrisonfordi is a specimen of the family of Caponiidae found on the California coast and rarely measuring more than 5.21 mm. It takes its name from the famous actor Harrison Ford .
You might think this has something to do with the movie. Indiana Jones in which Harrison Ford has many encounters with spiders, but this is not the case. This spider is named so to thank the actor for his commitment to the American Museum of Natural History.
Also read: These 14 insects that you might come across on vacation
The wasp Aleiodes shakirae
Aleiodes shakirae.
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It was in Ecuador that this small wasp was discovered among 24 new species of small wasps that have the particularity of mummifying caterpillars. These small wasps parasitize the caterpillar without it realizing it. When it is about to form its cocoon to become a butterfly, the caterpillar is transformed into a mummy by the parasite.
The wasp then uses this mummy as a shelter to develop and ends up cutting a hole to get out and find a new hotel. The specimen Aleiodes shakirae has the particularity of bending its host in addition to mummifying it. Thus, it is in reference to the dances of the famous singer Shakira what l’Aleiodes shakirae was named so.
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The Spider Aphonopelma johnnycashi
Aphonopelma johnnycashi.
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Entomologist Chris Hamilton is credited with naming a small spider called Aphonopelma johnnycashia tribute to the singer Johnny Cash . With its eight legs and black color, this spider, which is mainly found in the state of Mississippi, is reminiscent of the famous singer who had the particularity of regularly dressing all in black. Chris Hamilton being a big fan of Johnny Cash, it seemed obvious to him to honor one of his favorite artists.