Edward Cullen? No. This person actually exists. Alexander Skarsgård? No. In fact, drop the vampiric line of inquiry altogether. Any more guesses? Here’s a hint: these parasites hail from Jamaica. Still nothing? Okay.
It’s Bob Marley.
I know, right? It makes total sense! Marine biologist Paul Sikkel, who coined the name, says he means no disrespect; he dubbed the species Gnathia marleyi to honor the iconic artist:
“I named this species, which is truly a natural wonder, after Marley because of my respect and admiration for Marley’s music,” Sikkel said. “Plus, this species is as uniquely Caribbean as was Marley.”
Fair enough. And for what it’s worth, Marley is hardly the first celebrity to have his namesake loaned out to a newly christened species. He joins the ranks of such notables as Beyoncé, Harrison Ford and President Obama.
[Via L.A. Times]
