Background The macrostigma trout (Salmo trutta macrostigma) [named Salmo macrostigma in Annex II of the Habitats Directive], is the endemic salmonid of the Mediterranean area and the only original trout of central/southern Italy. It is classified as a vulnerable species in Europe and critically endangered in Italy. The main threats for the species are: water abstraction and stocking of non-native trouts (resulting in hybridisation and competition). The Atlantic brown trout (Salmo trutta) has been used for restocking purposes for many years, affecting the genetic integrity of most original macrostigma trout populations. However, a few residual macrostigma trout populations have recently been detected – through specific nuclear and gene markers – in some mainland areas of Italy. These relict populations were mainly found in places that are very difficult to reach. It therefore seems likely that more such populations may be present in other, difficult to access, watercourses. Objectives The project’s main objective is the recovery and the conservation of existing macrostigma trout populations in four main watercourses in central Italy (Ambro-Tenna, Nera, Chienti and Metauro), where small populations (i.e., less than 5% of the salmonid populations in the area) have been identified. Given that the macrostigma trout has been almost completely replaced in central/ southern Italy by the Atlantic brown trout (with the exception of a few populations in Sicily and Sardinia), the populations targeted by the project represent as much as 30-35% of the total known populations in Italy. Expected results: Identification of natural populations of macrostigma trout present in the area (32 sites) and their protection through specific changes in existing regulation; Production of “genetically certified” wild populations of the trout for restocking by establishing an aquaculture facility specifically adapted to manage wild native brood-stock (collection of trout rom 10 selected sites); Removal of alien trout species from six stretches of river and their subsequent restocking with pure juvenile trout through different strategies re-introduction and supportive-breeding. The removal of non-native trout species will also widen the habitat available to macrostigma trout; and Involvement of the local sports fishing community to increase its awareness about the problem and to facilitate acceptance of more restrictive fishery/management rules.