Forget frogs; the Bothriolepis looks like what a tadpole should aspire to become. This extinct placoderm fish (fancy talk for 'plated skin') resembled a swimming tank with thick, bone-filled skin for protection against pesky predators. Broad, flat pectoral fins provided lift and propelled it, heavy armour and all, up into the water column.

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Yet, despite its fierce look, this ancient fish was a peaceful bottom-feeder, embodying quiet strength as it glided through prehistoric waters. While its bony plates provided excellent protection, its tail remained vulnerable with only scales for defence. But hey, even knights have chinks in their armour.

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Sadly, this fish didn't win the survival of the fittest contest. The last species of Bothriolepis, along with the rest of the Placodermi, bowed out at the end of the Devonian period.