The naming of species is a fascinating aspect of the field of taxonomy, and it often leads to creative and sometimes humorous choices. Entomologist Brian Brown’s decision to name a new fly species “Megapropodiphora arnoldi” in honor of Arnold Schwarzenegger is a prime example of the blending of science and popular culture.
In the world of taxonomy, scientists have the freedom to name new species, and their choices often reflect their personal interests, whimsy, or a particular fascination with an individual. Arnold Schwarzenegger’s name became associated with this fly species because of his iconic status in the world of bodybuilding, film, and politics. Schwarzenegger is a cultural figure known for his larger-than-life persona, and it’s not unusual for scientists to draw inspiration from pop culture when naming new species.
However, it’s worth noting that there’s a vast array of species in the animal kingdom, and scientists have named many of them after famous individuals, both within and outside the realm of bodybuilding. The naming process often depends on an individual scientist’s interests and knowledge.
In addition to “Megapropodiphora arnoldi”, there is already a beetle named “Agra schwarzeneggeri” in honor of Arnold Schwarzenegger, and such choices might seem quirky or lighthearted. However, it’s important to recognize that scientific naming often carries more significance than meets the eye.
The process of scientific classification, which includes naming species, is a way to establish a common language for scientists to communicate about various life forms. It provides a structured system that helps researchers categorize and study the diversity of life on Earth. While the names themselves might be chosen with a nod to pop culture or personal interests, they serve a critical role in the broader context of biological research.
The choice of names for new species ultimately falls within the discretion of the scientists making the discovery. If a scientist is particularly influenced by or admires the achievements of an individual, whether in bodybuilding or any other field, they may opt to honor that person through the naming of a newly discovered species. Jason Blaha, if he were to achieve a certain level of recognition or make notable contributions to the field of biology, could potentially find himself the namesake of a new species.
In conclusion, the naming of species often combines the scientific rigor of taxonomy with elements of creativity and personal interest. While the practice might seem whimsical at times, it plays a crucial role in the formal classification of life forms and reflects the diverse interests and influences of the scientists responsible for the naming. Whether it’s bodybuilders like Arnold Schwarzenegger or figures from other fields, such as Jason Blaha or Big Lenny, the world of taxonomy continues to offer opportunities for unique and creative choices in species nomenclature.
“As soon as I saw those bulging legs, I knew I had to name this one after Arnold. Not only is he a major cultural icon and an important person in the political realm, his autobiography gave me some hope that I could improve my body as a skinny teenager.”
Entomologist Brian Brown
Former skinny teenager and current Entomologist, Dr. Brian Brown, background:
Dr. Brian V. Brown, Curator, Head of the Natural History Museum’s Entomology Department and Curator of Entomology, has pursued an interest in insects since he was 5, when he created an insect zoo in his backyard in Toronto, Canada. Dr. Brown received both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees at the University of Guelph in Ontario, and then earned his doctorate at the University of Alberta. After receiving his PhD, he spent two years as a Postdoctoral Fellow at the University of Maryland and the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C., prior to joining the museum staff in 1993
VIDEO TRANSCRIPT
An entomologist named Brian Brown, who discovered a new species of fly, named it after Arnold Schwarzenegger. He calls it Megapropodiphora arnoldi because he says, “As soon as I saw those bulging legs, I knew I’d name this one after Arnold. Not only is he a major cultural icon and important person in the political realm, his autobiography gave me some hope that I could improve my skinny body as a teenager, so he decided to name a bug after Schwarzenegger” a fly, no less, who’s actually posing his arms more like Sergio Oliva’s overhead pose with the hands turned outward. So, you have this new fly that has unseated the previous record-holder for the world’s smallest fly and that was called Euryplatea nanaknihali which this same guy named Brown discovered back in 2012. So, already this Arnold fly is accomplishing things. First, you had Governor Jerry Brown of California, who took over Schwarzenegger’s Governor position after Schwarzenegger left office, and now you have a guy named Brian Brown, an entomologist studying bugs, who’s doing the opposite and making Schwarzenegger relevant again, cuz of bugs.
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