Spider named after Neil Young

Rex Features

A new species of trapdoor spider has been named after Neil Young.

Scientists at East Carolina University in the US called the new discovery "Myrmekiaphila neilyoungi" as a token of respect for the musician.

Biologist Jason Bond said in a statement: "There are rather strict rules about how you name new species. As long as these rules are followed you can give a new species just about any name you please.

"With regards to Neil Young, I really enjoy his music and have had a great appreciation of him as an activist for peace and justice."

A species of beetle was previously named after late singer Roy Orbison.

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