How do I tame a Tusoteuthis in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Taming a Tusoteuthis in ARK: Survival Evolved is one of the more challenging tasks in the game due to its unique mechanics and the dangers of its underwater habitat. The Tusoteuthis, also known as the "Tuso," is a massive squid-like creature found in the deep ocean. It is highly aggressive and can grab smaller creatures, including players, with its tentacles. Taming a Tusoteuthis requires a specific approach, as it cannot be knocked out or passively tamed like most other creatures. Instead, it must be fed while it is grappling you or your tamed creature.

To begin, you will need to prepare the necessary resources and equipment. The Tusoteuthis prefers to eat Black Pearls, which are rare and can be found in the ocean, often dropped by creatures like Eurypterids or harvested from certain underwater nodes. You will need a significant amount of Black Pearls, as the Tuso has a high food requirement. Additionally, you will need a strong underwater mount, such as a Basilosaurus or a high-level Megalodon, to survive the encounter. Scuba gear or Lazarus Chowder is essential for extended underwater exploration, and you should bring medical brews or food to heal yourself during the taming process.

The first step is to locate a Tusoteuthis. They are typically found in the deep ocean, often near underwater caves or trenches. Once you find one, approach it carefully. The Tuso will attempt to grab you or your mount with its tentacles. When it does, you will be immobilized, and the taming process begins. While grappled, you must feed the Tusoteuthis Black Pearls from your inventory. Each feeding will increase its taming effectiveness, but you must be quick, as the Tuso will release you after a short time. If it releases you, you will need to approach it again to continue feeding.

One important tip is to avoid attacking the Tusoteuthis while it is grappling you or your mount. Attacking it will cause it to release you and may reset its taming progress. Instead, focus on feeding it Black Pearls as quickly as possible. It is also crucial to monitor your health and oxygen levels during the process. If you are using a mount, ensure it has high health and stamina to withstand the Tuso's attacks. If you are taming solo, consider using a Basilosaurus, as it has high health and immunity to the Tuso's grab attack.

A common mistake is underestimating the Tusoteuthis's strength and the dangers of the deep ocean. Many players attempt to tame it without proper preparation, leading to failure or death. Always bring extra Black Pearls, as the Tuso may require more than expected. Additionally, avoid taming in areas with other aggressive creatures, such as Megalodons or Cnidaria, as they can disrupt the process. If you are in a tribe, coordinate with your teammates to ensure someone is ready to assist if things go wrong.

Advanced techniques include using a taming pen to trap the Tusoteuthis, though this is difficult due to its size and mobility. Some players have successfully built underwater traps using metal foundations and gates, but this requires significant resources and planning. Another optimization is to use a taming calculator to determine the exact number of Black Pearls needed based on the Tuso's level. This can save time and resources by ensuring you bring enough food.

In summary, taming a Tusoteuthis requires careful preparation, patience, and a good understanding of its mechanics. Gather plenty of Black Pearls, equip yourself with strong underwater gear, and approach the Tuso with caution. Avoid common mistakes like attacking it during the taming process or taming in dangerous areas. With the right strategy and resources, you can successfully tame this powerful creature and add it to your arsenal for underwater exploration and combat.