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

Taming a high-level Coelacanth in ARK: Survival Evolved is a unique challenge because the Coelacanth is a passive tame, meaning it does not require knocking it out or using tranquilizers. Instead, you must approach it carefully and feed it the right food to gain its trust. Coelacanths are small fish commonly found in shallow waters across the maps, and while they are not particularly useful for combat or resource gathering, they can be tamed for completionist purposes or as a food source for other tames. Here is a detailed guide on how to tame a high-level Coelacanth effectively.

First, you need to understand the mechanics of passive taming. Passive taming involves feeding the creature its preferred food without agitating it. For Coelacanths, their preferred food is Leech Blood, which can be obtained by killing Leeches found in swamps. Alternatively, you can use Raw Prime Fish Meat or Raw Fish Meat, but Leech Blood is the most effective and speeds up the taming process. To begin, gather a sufficient amount of Leech Blood. You will need at least 10-15 pieces for a high-level Coelacanth, depending on its level and the taming effectiveness you aim for.

Next, locate a high-level Coelacanth. These fish are commonly found in shallow waters, especially near beaches or rivers. They are small and easy to spot due to their distinctive shape and movement. Once you find one, approach it slowly. Coelacanths are skittish and will swim away if you move too quickly or get too close. To avoid startling it, crouch and move at a slow pace. If you are playing on a mount, dismount and approach on foot to reduce the chances of scaring it.

When you are close enough, open your inventory and place the Leech Blood in the last slot of your hotbar for easy access. Aim at the Coelacanth and press the corresponding key to feed it. After feeding, the Coelacanth will swim away briefly. Wait a few seconds before approaching it again to feed it another piece of Leech Blood. Repeat this process until the taming bar is full. Be patient, as passive taming can take some time, especially for higher-level creatures.

One important tip is to avoid other predators in the area. Coelacanths are often found in waters inhabited by dangerous creatures like Piranhas or Sarcosuchus. These predators can attack you or the Coelacanth, disrupting the taming process. To minimize risks, clear the area of threats before starting the taming process. If you are playing solo, consider bringing a tamed aquatic creature like an Ichthyosaurus or a Baryonyx to protect yourself while taming.

Another consideration is taming effectiveness. Taming effectiveness determines the bonus levels your Coelacanth will gain after taming. To maintain high taming effectiveness, avoid feeding the Coelacanth anything other than Leech Blood. Using Raw Fish Meat or Raw Prime Fish Meat will lower the effectiveness and result in fewer bonus levels. Additionally, try to feed the Coelacanth as soon as it is ready to eat again. Delaying the feeding can cause the taming effectiveness to drop over time.

A common mistake players make is rushing the process. Coelacanths are easily scared, and if you move too quickly or feed them too aggressively, they may swim away and reset the taming progress. Always approach slowly and wait for the right moment to feed. Another mistake is not preparing enough Leech Blood. Running out of food mid-tame can be frustrating, so always gather extra resources before starting.

For advanced players, consider using a taming pen to make the process easier. Build a small enclosure in shallow water using stone or metal foundations and walls. Lure the Coelacanth into the pen and close the entrance. This will prevent it from swimming away and make feeding more manageable. However, be cautious not to trap yourself with aggressive creatures nearby.

In terms of resource requirements, you will need a good supply of Leech Blood, which can be obtained by killing Leeches in swampy areas. Bring a weapon like a Pike or a Crossbow to deal with Leeches efficiently. Additionally, wear armor to protect yourself from other swamp predators. If you are playing in a tribe, coordinate with your teammates to gather resources and protect the area while taming.

In conclusion, taming a high-level Coelacanth requires patience, preparation, and careful execution. Gather enough Leech Blood, approach the Coelacanth slowly, and feed it consistently to maintain high taming effectiveness. Clear the area of threats and consider using a taming pen for added convenience. By following these steps and avoiding common mistakes, you can successfully tame a high-level Coelacanth and add it to your collection of creatures in ARK: Survival Evolved.