Newly discovered species of spider named after Neil Young

A biologist from East Carolina University has named a newly discovered species of spider after Neil Young, Gigwise reports. Myrmekiaphila neilyoungi, a trapdoor spider, was discovered by Jason Bond in Alabama.

Apparently, it’s not difficult to create a scientific name honoring anyone or anything you want (providing, of course, you discover a new species). Bond explains (via the New York Times): “There are rather strict rules about how you name new species. As long as these rules are followed, you can give a new species just about any name you please. With regards to Neil Young, I really enjoy his music and have had a great appreciation of him as an activist for peace and justice.”

Related links:
More info on trapdoor spiders.
Neil Young on MySpace
Young in Paste’s 100 Greatest Living Songwriters.

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