Aplysia, the 8" sea slug of Pacific tidepools (a similar species is found in Atlantic tidal environements) is one of the most studied creatures in the world, because it is common, easily collected, and it's nervous system is simple, large, easily dissected, and perfect for neuronal transmission studies. Like the fruit fly, its medical and biological research potential is enormous, but it has a silly name so it makes an easy target for sensation-seeking politicians trying to make themselves out as budget watchdogs.

I hope if we ever do make contact with extraterrestrial intelligence, we honor the alien's planet with the name "Proxmire", so that particular brand of cheap political shot will be immortalized forever.