Scientists name new insect genus after Taylor Swift

Which insects received new names

The scientific study describes 12 new insect species associated with Australian casuarinas — trees and shrubs that grow, among other places, in coastal areas and arid conditions.

Some of the insects discovered were so different from known species that researchers established a new genus for them.

The genus Swiftiephylus includes four species:

• Swiftiephylus taylorae — the name directly refers to Taylor Swift
• Swiftiephylus amator — derived from the Latin word for "lover" and linked to the album Lover
• Swiftiephylus intrepidus — a Latin word meaning "fearless," echoing the title Fearless
• Swiftiephylus poetorum — "poets," referring to the album The Tortured Poets Department

The name Swiftiephylus itself is formed from "Swiftie" — the term used for the singer’s fans — and Phylus, an element used in the names of this group of insects.

Swiftiephylus insects (photo: Insect Systematics and Evolution)

Why researchers chose Taylor Swift

One of the study’s authors was Sarah Schroeder, a graduate student in entomology at the University of California, Riverside. She has been a longtime fan of the singer and explained that she wanted not only to honor Swift in this way but also to draw attention to the little-studied world of insects.

The researcher also noticed a certain resemblance between the insects’ appearance and Swift’s signature look. Their bodies are light-colored, pale yellow or cream, with red or reddish-orange accents. According to Schroeder, this reminded her of the singer’s blonde hair and red lips.

However, this coloration also has a practical explanation. The insects live on casuarinas, and their appearance may help them remain inconspicuous among the plants. The reddish-orange elements of their bodies resemble the structures of the plants’ flowers, creating a kind of natural camouflage.