This research provides the first complete genetic blueprint of Morchella spongiola, an important edible mushroom found in the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. The study reveals that this mushroom is its own unique species that evolved about 12.85 million years ago, likely due to geological changes in the plateau region. This discovery has important implications for both science and society. Key impacts on everyday life: • Helps improve cultivation methods for this valuable edible mushroom • Enables better identification of genuine M. spongiola in markets • Supports development of new medicines from this mushroom’s compounds • Aids conservation efforts by clarifying the species’ unique identity • Could lead to improved mushroom varieties through selective breeding