See text The Syngnathiformes /ˈsɪŋ(ɡ)nəθɪfɔːrmiːz/ are an order of ray-finned fishes that includes the leafy seadragons, sea moths, trumpetfishes and seahorses, among others.

[2] These fishes have generally elongate, narrow bodies surrounded by a series of bony rings, with small, tubular mouths.

[3] Many species of Syngnathiformes also employ strategic camouflage (such as cryptic coloration and overall physical form) to hunt successfully and gain closer access to prey, as well as to protect themselves from larger predators.

The most defining characteristic of Syngnathiformes is their reproductive and sexual system, in which syngnathid males become "pregnant" and carry the embryonic fry.

The earliest known syngnathiform is Gasteroramphosus from the late Cretaceous (either Santonian or Campanian) of Italy, which is similar in form to Marcroramphosus but which has some characters which are suggestive of a relation to Gasterosteoidei.