Does it sometimes feel like every time you check the news; some new, terrible thing has happened? Maybe we all need a break from the tragedies to focus on something good that has happened recently.
One positive recent event was the discovery of a new genus of insect in Australia this month, according to USA Today. Scientists believe that these “new” creatures have actually been hiding out down under for several decades before they were finally located and classified.
Professor Christiane Weirauch and doctoral student Sarah Schroeder of the University of California provided insight on the appearance of the species. Schroeder shared that the most amusing part of this news is not the fact of the newfound creature in and of itself, but rather its name.
The insect has been named the Swiftiephylus after the one and only Taylor Swift, an American pop star who has become a household name over the last two decades.
Schroeder stated that she is a “lifelong Swiftie” and hence named the insect after her idol upon observing its unique appearance. Its body is a translucent yellow color, giving it a “blonde” look, similar to the star’s hair color. Several spots on its body are red, which also helped to inspire its name as it reminded Schroeder of Taylor Swift’s signature red lipstick.
There are four species of insect under the new genus, all being named after Taylor Swift or her albums. The species include “taylorae,” “intrapidus,” “poetorum,” and “amator.” While some names are self-explanatory, others are latin twists on the titles.
As “Swifties” across the world hear this news, more news stories are rolling in about the details behind this interesting discovery and its origins. Though some may see the naming of the insect as a stretch, it is without a doubt and wholesome and unique idea to add some fun into science. It is a breath of fresh air to have something silly and enjoyable in the midst of so many disheartening stories!
