Rock stalwart Neil Young has had a new species of spider named after him.

University biologist Jason Bond discovered the spider in Alabama last year, and decided to name the species "Myrmekiaphila neilyoungi" after his favourite musician.

"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," said Bond.

Neil Young plays Malahide Castle on June 29th and Live at the Marquee, Cork, on June 30th.