What is the best way to tame a high-level Zombie Coelacanth in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Taming a high-level Zombie Coelacanth in ARK: Survival Evolved is a unique challenge due to its specific mechanics and the environment in which it is found. The Zombie Coelacanth is a special variant of the Coelacanth that appears during the Fear Evolved event, which typically occurs around Halloween. This creature is not a standard tame and requires a different approach compared to most other dinosaurs in the game. Below is a detailed guide on how to tame a high-level Zombie Coelacanth, covering mechanics, strategies, tips, and considerations.

The Zombie Coelacanth is a passive tame, meaning you do not need to knock it out or use tranquilizers. Instead, you must approach it carefully and feed it the appropriate food to gain its trust. The preferred food for taming a Zombie Coelacanth is Spoiled Meat. This is different from the regular Coelacanth, which can be tamed with regular Raw Meat. Spoiled Meat is relatively easy to obtain by letting Raw Meat spoil in your inventory or storage. You will need a significant amount of Spoiled Meat, especially for a high-level Zombie Coelacanth, as higher-level creatures require more food to tame.

To begin the taming process, you must first locate a Zombie Coelacanth. These creatures spawn in the water during the Fear Evolved event, typically in areas where regular Coelacanths are found. Look for them in rivers, lakes, or along the coastlines. Once you spot a Zombie Coelacanth, approach it slowly and cautiously. Unlike aggressive creatures, the Zombie Coelacanth will not attack you, but it may swim away if you move too quickly or make sudden movements. It is important to remain calm and patient during this process.

When you are close enough to the Zombie Coelacanth, open your inventory and place the Spoiled Meat in the last slot of your hotbar. This allows you to quickly access the food when needed. Press the corresponding hotkey to feed the Zombie Coelacanth. Each feeding will increase the taming progress, but you must wait for the creature to become hungry again before feeding it more Spoiled Meat. The taming process can take some time, especially for high-level Zombie Coelacanths, so be prepared to spend a while in the water.

One important consideration is the environment. Since the Zombie Coelacanth is found in water, you will need to be equipped for underwater survival. This includes having a good supply of Oxygen, as well as protection from other aquatic predators. Wearing Scuba Gear or using Lazarus Chowder can help you stay underwater longer without running out of Oxygen. Additionally, be aware of other dangerous creatures in the area, such as Megalodons or Piranhas, which may attack you while you are focused on taming. It is a good idea to clear the area of threats before attempting to tame the Zombie Coelacanth.

Another tip is to use a taming pen or trap to make the process easier. While the Zombie Coelacanth is not aggressive, it can still swim away if you are not careful. Building a small underwater enclosure with walls or gates can help keep the creature in one place while you feed it. This is especially useful if you are taming solo, as it reduces the risk of losing the Zombie Coelacanth to the open water. Make sure the pen has enough space for you to move around and feed the creature without getting stuck.

Resource management is also crucial for taming a high-level Zombie Coelacanth. As mentioned earlier, you will need a large amount of Spoiled Meat. To prepare, gather as much Raw Meat as possible and let it spoil in your inventory or storage. You can also use a Preserving Bin to speed up the spoiling process. Additionally, bring extra Spoiled Meat in case the taming process takes longer than expected. It is better to have too much food than to run out in the middle of taming.

Common mistakes to avoid include moving too quickly or making sudden movements near the Zombie Coelacanth, which can cause it to swim away. Another mistake is not being prepared for the underwater environment, such as running out of Oxygen or being attacked by other creatures. Always ensure you have the necessary equipment and supplies before attempting to tame a Zombie Coelacanth. Additionally, do not underestimate the amount of Spoiled Meat required for a high-level tame. Use a taming calculator to estimate the exact amount needed based on the creature's level.

Advanced techniques for taming a Zombie Coelacanth include using a taming pen with a roof to prevent the creature from escaping. You can also use a Bola to temporarily immobilize the Zombie Coelacanth, although this is not always necessary since it is a passive tame. If you are playing in a tribe, coordinate with your teammates to ensure someone is always nearby to feed the creature while others keep watch for predators. This can speed up the taming process and reduce the risk of losing the Zombie Coelacanth.

In conclusion, taming a high-level Zombie Coelacanth in ARK: Survival Evolved requires patience, preparation, and careful execution. By following the steps outlined above, you can successfully tame this unique creature and add it to your collection. Remember to gather plenty of Spoiled Meat, equip yourself for underwater survival, and use a taming pen if necessary. Avoid common mistakes such as startling the creature or running out of resources, and consider advanced techniques like using a Bola or coordinating with your tribe. With the right approach, you can tame a high-level Zombie Coelacanth and enjoy the benefits it brings to your survival in ARK.