What are the best methods for taming a high-level Ichthyosaurus in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Taming a high-level Ichthyosaurus in ARK: Survival Evolved is a relatively straightforward process compared to other creatures, but it still requires careful preparation and execution. 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 in the game, 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 must 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 require more food. Regular Kibble is made from Dodo Eggs, which can be obtained by taming and breeding Dodos. Preparing the kibble in advance is highly recommended for a faster and more efficient tame.

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 the Ichthyosaurus is 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 far-right slot of your hotbar. This will allow you to quickly access the food when needed. Once you are in position, press the corresponding key to feed the Ichthyosaurus. After feeding, the creature will swim away for a short period before returning. During this time, you should remain still and avoid chasing it, as this can 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 an Ichthyosaurus, building a small enclosure in shallow water can make the process easier. You can use stone or wooden structures to create a pen with an open top, allowing you to guide the Ichthyosaurus inside. Once it is in the pen, you can close the entrance to prevent it from swimming away. This method is particularly useful if you are taming solo or in an area with other predators.

Another tip is to use a Bola to immobilize the Ichthyosaurus temporarily. While this is not required, it can help you get closer to the creature without it swimming away. However, be cautious when using a Bola, as it may cause the Ichthyosaurus to panic and flee if not used correctly.

Common mistakes to avoid include approaching the Ichthyosaurus too quickly or using the wrong type of food. Using low-quality food like Raw Meat or Berries will significantly increase the taming time and may require more resources. Additionally, failing to monitor the creature's taming progress can lead to wasted effort if it swims too far away or is attacked by other predators.

Advanced techniques for optimizing the taming process include using a taming calculator to determine the exact amount of food and time required for a high-level Ichthyosaurus. This can help you plan your resources and ensure you have enough food on hand. Additionally, using a taming effectiveness booster, such as a Taming Speed multiplier, can reduce the overall taming time. This is particularly useful in single-player or private servers where you have control over the game settings.

Resource requirements for taming a high-level Ichthyosaurus include Regular Kibble, Raw Mutton, or other preferred foods, as well as a Bola if you choose to use one. You will also need a source of oxygen, such as a Scuba Tank or Lazarus Chowder, to stay underwater for extended periods. If you are building a taming pen, gather the necessary materials like stone or wood in advance.

Tribe and solo considerations are minimal for taming an Ichthyosaurus, as it is a relatively simple process. However, having a tribe member assist you can make the process faster and more efficient. For example, one player can guide the Ichthyosaurus into a taming pen while the other feeds it. In solo play, patience and careful movement are key to avoiding mistakes.

In summary, taming a high-level Ichthyosaurus in ARK: Survival Evolved 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 can also work. Building a taming pen or using a Bola can help streamline the process, while avoiding common mistakes like using low-quality food or startling the creature is essential. With proper preparation and execution, you can successfully tame a high-level Ichthyosaurus to enhance your underwater exploration and resource gathering capabilities.