We know a lot of Pokemon are based on animals.

But here are 10 examples that will make you re-think everything you thought you knew about Pokemon.

10. Caterpie = Caterpillar

Sure, Caterpies are based on caterpillars - but the specific design of Caterpie are based on a specific kind of caterpillar.

9. Mudkip = Axolotl

Mudkip seems like a weird animal - one too many fins, goofy eyes, and things just sprouting out of its cheeks for no reason? That's because it's based on the axolotl.

8. Vileplume = Rafflesia Arnoldii

The huge, ridiculous magenta, spotted petals of Vileplume are actually real - they're virtually identical to those of Rafflesia arnoldii - even the central pit looks the same.

7. Sandshrew = Pangolin

It's got the claws, it's got the scales - it even has the eyes! Yep, pangolins are the Sandslashes of reality.

6. Shellos = Chromodoris Lochi

The mysteriously shell-less Shellos is pretty obviously inspired by sea slugs but, more specifically, the Chromodoris lochi.

5. Mewtwo = This Horrible Cat

OMG!

4. Drowzee = Tapir

The same elephant-esque nose, the same ears, and the same hooves. Let's just hope it doesn't start hypnotizing people when it grows up.

3. Stunfisk = Stargazer

The horrified upward-facing eyes say it all. Yep. That's a Stunfisk all right.

2. Trubbish = A Bag Of Garbage

Also, a metaphorical one.

1. Pikachu = Quokka

Native to the rocky mountainsides of northern Europe, Asia, and the Americas, they are a type of lagomorph, the order that contains rabbits and hares.

Welcome to the wild kingdom.