How do I tame a high-level Ichthyosaurus in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Taming a high-level Ichthyosaurus in ARK: Survival Evolved is a relatively straightforward process compared to many other creatures in the game. The Ichthyosaurus, often referred to as an "Ichthy," is a small, dolphin-like marine creature that is passive and non-aggressive. It is one of the easiest creatures to tame, making it an excellent choice for beginners or players looking to expand their aquatic capabilities. Below is a detailed guide on how to tame a high-level Ichthyosaurus, covering mechanics, strategies, tips, and more.

The Ichthyosaurus is a passive tame, meaning you do not need to knock it out. Instead, you will need to approach it carefully and feed it its preferred food. The preferred food for an Ichthyosaurus is Regular Kibble, which is the most effective option for taming. However, if you do not have Regular Kibble, you can also use Raw Mutton, Cooked Lamb Chop, or Raw Prime Meat. These alternatives will still work but will take longer and may require more food. Regular Kibble is the most efficient choice, as it reduces the taming time significantly and requires fewer resources overall.

To begin taming, you will need to locate an Ichthyosaurus in the ocean. They are commonly found in shallow waters near the shore, making them easy to spot. Once you have identified a high-level Ichthyosaurus, approach it slowly. It is important to note that Ichthyosaurs are skittish and will swim away if you move too quickly or get too close. To avoid startling it, swim at a moderate pace and keep a reasonable distance until you are ready to feed it.

When you are close enough, open your inventory and place the preferred food in the last slot of your hotbar. This will allow you to quickly access it when needed. Swim up to the Ichthyosaurus and press the appropriate button to feed it (this varies depending on your platform). After feeding, the Ichthyosaurus will swim away for a short period before returning. During this time, you should stay nearby but avoid chasing it, as this may cause it to flee further. Repeat this process until the taming bar is full.

One important consideration is the use of a taming pen. While not strictly necessary for Ichthyosaurs, building a small underwater pen can make the process easier, especially if you are taming solo. A pen can prevent the Ichthyosaurus from swimming too far away, reducing the time and effort required to complete the tame. To build a pen, use stone or metal foundations and walls to create an enclosed area in shallow water. Lure the Ichthyosaurus into the pen by feeding it once, then quickly close the entrance to trap it. This method ensures that the creature remains within reach, making the taming process more efficient.

Another tip is to use a Scuba Tank or Lazarus Chowder to extend your underwater breathing time. Taming an Ichthyosaurus can take several minutes, especially if you are using less effective food like Raw Prime Meat. Having extended oxygen will allow you to stay underwater longer without needing to surface for air. Additionally, wearing flippers or using a Megalodon for faster swimming can help you keep up with the Ichthyosaurus as it moves around.

Common mistakes to avoid include using the wrong type of food or startling the Ichthyosaurus by moving too quickly. Using low-quality food like Raw Meat or Berries will significantly increase the taming time and may require more resources than necessary. Additionally, chasing the Ichthyosaurus aggressively can cause it to swim away, making the process more difficult. Patience is key when taming passive creatures like the Ichthyosaurus.

For advanced players, consider using a taming calculator to determine the exact amount of food and time required for a high-level Ichthyosaurus. This tool can help you plan your resources and ensure you have enough food to complete the tame. Additionally, if you are playing in a tribe, coordinate with other members to gather resources and build a taming pen. This can save time and make the process smoother, especially if you are taming multiple Ichthyosaurs.

In summary, taming a high-level Ichthyosaurus involves locating the creature, approaching it carefully, and feeding it its preferred food. Using Regular Kibble is the most efficient method, but alternatives like Raw Mutton or Raw Prime Meat can also work. Building a taming pen and using tools like Scuba Tanks or Lazarus Chowder can make the process easier. Avoid common mistakes like using low-quality food or startling the creature, and consider using a taming calculator for optimization. With these strategies, you can successfully tame a high-level Ichthyosaurus and enhance your aquatic capabilities in ARK: Survival Evolved.