Background Cyprinidae are a large family of freshwater fish that comprise carp, true minnow and their relatives. Recent studies show a decline in the populations of some threatened endemic cyprinid fish species in the Duero and Tajo river basins. In order of importance, the main reasons for this decline are the existence of obstacles in the river channel, the increasing presence of invasive species, the loss of habitats due to human interventions in the river channel, reduced water flow rates in the river and poor water quality. Objectives The LIFE CIPRÍBER project aims to aid the recovery of endemic cyprinid populations in Natura 2000 sites in the southwest of the Salamanca province. It plans to tackle threats and restore habitats for these target species. The project also plans to conduct studies to increase technical and scientific knowledge on the species, as well as to assess the impact of environmental pressures and how to eliminate them. Based on the results of these studies, the project will draft and implement a fish action plan, an action framework document and an action protocol against invasive species. Expected interventions include the removal of unused transversal barriers and other barriers to make both used and unused barriers passable to fish, and the restoration of river channels. The project also intends to develop a captive breeding protocol for the use of native fish resources in the ichthyological centre of Galisancho. It will evaluate the results obtained to determine the feasibility and effectiveness of captive breeding as a conservation strategy to be applied elsewhere. Finally, the project aims to deliver both fish and water resources management plans for post-LIFE implementation, to share knowledge with scientific groups and authorities involved in biodiversity conservation, and to raise public awareness. Expected results: A diagnosis of the pre-operational situation; An initial fish action plan; An action framework document; An action protocol for invasive species; Improved river continuity for fish through removal or amendment of transversal barriers and the restoration of 4 200 m of river channels; A captive breeding programme at the ichthyological centre of Galisancho to obtain an additional population for reintroduction in their natural environment; Improved conservation situation for the endemic cyprinid populations in the project area; and A post-LIFE water resources management plan and a fish species management plan.