As fascinating as dinosaurs were, there are plenty of other creatures on Earth today that are just as amazing. Whether it’s their abilities, adaptabilities, or just their unique quirks, these animals are sure to astound you.

First up, we have the tardigrade, also known as the water bear. These tiny creatures are just 0.5mm to 1.5mm in length, but don’t let their size fool you. Tardigrades are some of the toughest animals on the planet, capable of withstanding extreme temperatures, radiation, vacuum, and even the vacuum of space. In fact, when exposed to extreme conditions, tardigrades enter a state known as cryptobiosis, where they essentially shut down their bodies until conditions are more favorable.

Another incredible animal is the axolotl, a type of salamander that has the ability to regrow entire limbs. Not only that, but axolotls are capable of regenerating their spinal cords, heart tissue, and even parts of their brains. Scientists are even studying axolotls in hopes of learning more about how human tissue can be regenerated.

Those looking for more impressive abilities should look no further than the mantis shrimp, a colorful creature that can punch its prey with a force equivalent to a .22 caliber bullet. This is possible because of specialized muscles in the mantis shrimp’s appendages, which have a structure comparable to that of high-tech materials used in airplane parts.

If you want a creature with a unique appearance, the blobfish might be just what you’re looking for. These gelatinous fish have a face that looks like it’s been melted, but in reality, it’s just the result of living at extreme depths where the pressure is 60 to 120 times greater than at sea level.

Finally, for those who are easily impressed by size, we have the blue whale. These massive mammals can grow up to 100 feet long and weigh as much as 200 tons. They’re so big that their hearts alone can weigh up to 1,000 pounds and are large enough for a human to swim through their arteries.

These are just a few examples of the amazing animals that can be found on our planet. From the tiny tardigrade to the massive blue whale, it’s clear that there’s no shortage of incredible creatures out there. So the next time you’re feeling bored with dinosaurs, just remember that there are plenty of other animals out there that will astound you.