NEW DELHI: Scientists have discovered a new species of snake in India’s Western Himalayan region and named it after Hollywood actor Leonardo DiCaprio, in recognition of his environmental activism.
The Anguiculus dicaprioi, or DiCaprio’s Himalayan snake, is a copper-coloured snake with “dozens of teeth” that was found in June 2020 by a team of researchers from Germany, India and the UK, according to a report published in peer-reviewed journal Scientific Reports on Oct 21.
The scientists decided to name it after the 49-year-old A-list star and Oscar winner for his active involvement in creating awareness about climate change, increased biodiversity loss and human health issues caused by pollution.
“In addition to this, he has made funds available for field conservation activities and research,” the report said.
In 1998, at the age of 24, DiCaprio established a foundation to support organisations and initiatives dedicated to preserving Planet Earth.
So far, he has provided more than US$100 million (S$132 million) in grants to various programmes supporting social and environmental issues.
Scientists discovered some DiCaprio’s Himalayan snakes “basking” on mud roads in the northern Indian state of Himachal Pradesh.
The reptiles remained motionless until they were caught, and made no attempts to bite.
After their DNA was analysed, the researchers realised the snakes were an entirely new species, though they share genes with existing serpents.
Besides having numerous teeth – which makes it distinct from other viper species – the snake can grow up to about 56cm and has a short head, large nostrils and a “steeply domed snout”.
It can also be identified by its “faint” gray band, which almost appears to be a “collar” around the reptile’s neck.
The snake is believed to be able to live up to 1,800m above sea level.
The study said the DiCaprio’s Himalayan snakes have been found in Nepal and the neighbouring Indian states of Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand. - The Straits Times/ANN
