From Shakira to King Charles: Animals named after celebrities

One of the biggest advantages of discovering a new species is the opportunity to give it a name! Many scientists draw inspiration from famous personalities, creating an amusing connection between the world of nature and pop culture. While some species are named after simple or meaningful traits, others are dubbed after celebrities. In some cases, naming a species after a famous figure also serves to draw attention to endangered species. Here are some fascinating examples of animals named after singers, activists, and even politicians.

Prince Charles – Hyloscirtus princecharlesi  

In 2012, while Prince Charles was still the heir to the British throne, a tree frog living in the forests of Ecuador was named in his honor. The species was named for the prince’s contributions to forest conservation.

Shakira – Aleiodes shakirae  

Discovered in the eastern Andes of Ecuador, this parasitic wasp belongs to a family known for laying eggs inside other animals, often a butterfly’s cocoon. As the eggs hatch and grow, the butterfly’s body begins to twist, mirroring the movements in the music video for Shakira’s hit song "Hips Don’t Lie."

Beyoncé – Plinthina beyonceae  

In 1981, a horsefly was discovered and later named after the iconic singer Beyoncé. Though the species was discovered much earlier, it wasn’t officially named after her until 2011, when it was found to be at risk of extinction. The fly’s tail, covered in dense golden hairs, was the inspiration behind the name, reflecting Beyoncé’s hit song "Bootylicious."

David Attenborough – Over 40 Species

 
British naturalist and TV presenter David Attenborough has had more than 40 animal species named in his honor. Among these are Prismantis attenboroughi, Nepenthes attenboroughii, and Attenborougharion rubicundus, showcasing the deep respect the scientific community has for his contributions to nature.

Queen group – H. freddiemercuryi, H. brianmayi, H. rogertaylori, H. johndeaconi  

Not just one, but the entire Queen group! In celebration of the band’s 40th anniversary, a species was named for each member of the iconic band: Freddie Mercury, Brian May, Roger Taylor, and John Deacon.

Taylor Swift – Nannaria swiftae  

A centipede discovered in North America in 2022 was named in honor of Taylor Swift. One of the scientists, Derek Hehn, said he was inspired by his admiration for the singer. He also named another species after his wife.

Adolf Hitler – Anophthalmus hitleri (beetle)  

In 1937, a cave beetle discovered by German entomologist Oskar Scheibel was named after the then German Chancellor Adolf Hitler. Hitler personally thanked the scientist for this gesture. However, after World War II, the beetle became a controversial item, and today it is illegal to catch the endangered Anophthalmus hitleri.

Greta Thunberg – Pristimantis gretathunbergae and others  

Swedish environmental activist Greta Thunberg has had several species named after her in recognition of her efforts to combat climate change. These include a frog, a shell, and a spider.

Barack Obama – Baracktrema obamai (worm)  

In August 2016, a flatworm found in the blood of water turtles was named after the 44th President of the United States, Barack Obama. The scientist who named the species explained that the parasite resembled Obama: "long, thin, and very strong!" This, however, led to some controversy, with accusations of favoritism.