What is the best way to 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 other creatures, but it still requires careful preparation and execution. The Ichthyosaurus, often referred to as an "Ichthy," is a small, fast aquatic creature that is passive and non-aggressive, making it one of the easiest dinosaurs to tame. However, its speed and aquatic nature can pose challenges if you are not prepared. Below is a detailed guide on how to tame a high-level Ichthyosaurus effectively.

First, letÔÇÖs discuss the mechanics involved. 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 Ichthyosaurus prefers Regular Kibble, which is the most effective taming food, but it will also accept Raw Mutton, Cooked Lamb Chop, Raw Prime Meat, Cooked Prime Meat, Raw Meat, and Cooked Meat. Regular Kibble will significantly speed up the taming process, so it is highly recommended if you have access to it. The taming process involves swimming up to the Ichthyosaurus and feeding it the appropriate food. After each feeding, there is a cooldown period before you can feed it again. During this time, you must stay close to the creature to maintain its attention.

Now, letÔÇÖs go through the step-by-step instructions. Start by gathering the necessary resources. If you are using Regular Kibble, you will need to craft it using an Egg (from a Dodo, Dilophosaur, or Kairuku), Cooked Meat, Rockarrot, Mejoberry, Fiber, and Waterskin or Water Jar. If you are using meat, ensure you have enough to sustain the taming process, as high-level Ichthyosaurs will require a significant amount. Once you have the food, head to the ocean or any body of water where Ichthyosaurs spawn. They are commonly found in shallow waters near the coast. Equip yourself with a set of Scuba Gear or Lazarus Chowder to extend your underwater breathing time, as the taming process can take a while.

When you locate a high-level Ichthyosaurus, approach it slowly. Avoid sudden movements, as this can scare it away. Swim close enough to interact with it and feed it the food. After feeding, stay nearby and wait for the cooldown timer to reset before feeding it again. Repeat this process until the taming bar is full. It is important to note that the Ichthyosaurus will swim away if you move too far from it, so keep a close distance throughout the taming process.

Here are some important tips and considerations. First, always carry extra food in case the taming process takes longer than expected. Second, be aware of your surroundings. Predators like Megalodons or Plesiosaurs can disrupt the taming process, so clear the area of threats beforehand. Third, if you are taming in deep water, consider using a raft or a taming pen to create a safe environment. Building a small enclosure with walls underwater can help keep the Ichthyosaurus contained and prevent it from swimming away.

Common mistakes to avoid include scaring the Ichthyosaurus by moving too quickly or losing track of it during the taming process. Additionally, failing to prepare enough food or narcotics (though not required for passive taming) can lead to an incomplete tame. Always double-check your inventory before starting the taming process.

For advanced techniques or optimizations, consider using a taming calculator to determine the exact amount of food and time required for the specific level of Ichthyosaurus you are taming. This can help you plan your resources more efficiently. Additionally, if you are playing in a tribe, coordinate with your teammates to gather resources and protect the area while you focus on taming. Solo players should prioritize safety and resource management, as they will not have backup in case of emergencies.

In terms of resource requirements, you will need a significant amount of food, depending on the level of the Ichthyosaurus. For example, a level 150 Ichthyosaurus will require approximately 20 Regular Kibble or 50 Raw Mutton. Ensure you have enough food and a way to preserve it, such as a preserving bin or refrigerator, to prevent spoilage.

Specific examples and scenarios include taming an Ichthyosaurus in the early game versus the late game. In the early game, you may not have access to Regular Kibble, so you will need to rely on Raw Meat or Cooked Meat. This will make the taming process longer and more resource-intensive. In the late game, with access to Kibble and advanced tools like Scuba Gear, the process becomes much faster and more efficient.

In conclusion, taming a high-level Ichthyosaurus in ARK: Survival Evolved requires careful preparation, patience, and attention to detail. By following the steps outlined above, you can successfully tame this useful aquatic creature to aid in your underwater exploration and resource gathering. Whether you are playing solo or in a tribe, the Ichthyosaurus is a valuable addition to your team of tamed creatures.