Taxonomy Gone Wild
We dive into the weirdest, funniest, and most unhinged names in science — from unfortunately named minerals to genes that sound like metal bands. Because scientists are clever, chaotic, and occasionally need adult supervision.
Deinococcus radiodurans, the unkillable bacteria that is teaching us a lot about radiation recovery.
Conan the Bacterium
Arsole
Lord of the Snails
Christmas Disease
Yes it is a legitimate aromatic compound used in semiconductors and light-emitting materials.
Two new snail species were actually named after Eowyn and Merry from Lord of the Rings.
It's a real disease and it is not festive, caused by a defect in Clotting Factor IX.
Dickite Mineral
Definitely a real mineral, Kaolonite to be specifity - a type of flaky white clay mineral.
I'm Not Dead Yet Gene
INDY stands for “I’m Not Dead Yet.”
It’s a real longevity gene — and a solid reminder that scientists watch too much Monty Python.
cummingtonite is a real mineral — not a prank. Magnesium-iron silicate, unfortunate name, endless giggles.
Meet Sonic Hedgehog, a protein that guides early development in humans. Yes, it’s really named after that blue hedgehog.