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

Taming a high-level Piranha in ARK: Survival Evolved can be a challenging but rewarding task. Piranhas are aggressive aquatic creatures found in rivers and shallow waters across various maps. They are not rideable, but they can be useful for guarding underwater areas or as companions for underwater exploration. HereÔÇÖs a detailed guide on how to tame a high-level Piranha effectively.

First, letÔÇÖs discuss the mechanics involved. Piranhas are passive tames, meaning you do not need to knock them out. Instead, you must approach them carefully and feed them their preferred food. Piranhas prefer raw meat, raw fish meat, or cooked fish jerky. However, using raw fish meat is the most efficient option for taming. Passive taming requires patience, as you must avoid startling the Piranha while feeding it. If you move too quickly or get too close, the Piranha will become aggressive and attack.

To begin, gather the necessary resources. You will need a significant amount of raw fish meat, which can be obtained by killing Coelacanths or other small fish. You may also want to bring some cooked fish jerky as a backup, though it is less effective. Additionally, consider bringing a scuba tank or Lazarus Chowder to extend your underwater breathing time, as taming Piranhas requires you to stay submerged for extended periods. If you are playing on a map with dangerous underwater predators, such as the Megalodon or Electrophorus, bring a strong aquatic mount like a Baryonyx or Basilosaurus for protection.

Next, locate a high-level Piranha. Piranhas are commonly found in rivers and shallow waters, but they can also appear in deeper areas. Look for a Piranha that is at least level 100 or higher, as higher-level creatures have better stats and are more valuable for taming. Once you find a suitable Piranha, approach it slowly. Avoid sudden movements or getting too close, as this will trigger its aggression. If the Piranha becomes aggressive, swim away quickly and wait for it to calm down before trying again.

When you are close enough, open your inventory and place the raw fish meat or cooked fish jerky in the last slot of your hotbar. This allows you to quickly access the food when needed. Slowly approach the Piranha and press the appropriate button to feed it. After feeding, the Piranha will swim away briefly. Wait for it to return and repeat the process. Each feeding increases the taming progress, but it also increases the PiranhaÔÇÖs taming effectiveness, which determines its final stats. To maximize effectiveness, avoid feeding the Piranha too quickly. Wait a few seconds between each feeding to allow the effectiveness to reset.

One important tip is to use a taming pen. While Piranhas are small and fast, building a simple underwater pen can help keep them contained during the taming process. Use stone or metal foundations and walls to create a small enclosure with an open top. Lure the Piranha into the pen using raw fish meat, then close the entrance. This prevents the Piranha from swimming away and makes the taming process more manageable. However, be cautious when building in water, as some structures may not place correctly or could be destroyed by other creatures.

Common mistakes to avoid include moving too quickly or feeding the Piranha too frequently. Both actions can cause the Piranha to become aggressive, resetting the taming progress. Additionally, avoid taming in areas with high predator activity. Piranhas are fragile and can easily be killed by larger creatures, wasting your time and resources. Always scout the area beforehand and clear out any threats.

For advanced techniques, consider using a taming calculator to determine the exact amount of food and time required for the PiranhaÔÇÖs level. This helps you prepare the right amount of resources and plan your taming session efficiently. Additionally, if you are playing in a tribe, coordinate with your teammates to gather resources and protect the taming area. One player can focus on feeding the Piranha while others guard against predators or gather additional food.

In solo play, prioritize safety and resource management. Bring extra food and healing items in case of emergencies. If you are taming in a dangerous area, consider using a taming pen or luring the Piranha to a safer location before starting the process. Always have an escape plan in case things go wrong.

In conclusion, taming a high-level Piranha requires patience, preparation, and careful execution. By following these steps and tips, you can successfully tame a powerful Piranha to aid in your underwater adventures. Remember to gather the necessary resources, approach the Piranha slowly, and avoid common mistakes to ensure a smooth taming process. With practice and experience, you will become proficient at taming these aquatic predators and enhancing your survival in ARK: Survival Evolved.