What is the best way to farm black pearls for advanced base structures in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Farming black pearls in ARK: Survival Evolved is essential for crafting advanced base structures and items, such as Tek-tier equipment and structures. Black pearls are a rare resource, and obtaining them efficiently requires careful planning and preparation. HereÔÇÖs a detailed guide on how to farm black pearls effectively.

Black pearls are primarily obtained from certain creatures, such as Trilobites, Eurypterids, Ammonites, and Tusoteuthis. Eurypterids, also known as sea scorpions, are the most reliable source of black pearls, but they are dangerous and found in deep ocean biomes. Tusoteuthis, a large squid-like creature, also drops a significant amount of black pearls when harvested. Additionally, black pearls can be found in small quantities in certain underwater loot crates or by harvesting dead Alpha Mosasaurs and Alpha Tusoteuthis.

To begin farming black pearls, youÔÇÖll need to prepare for underwater exploration. Crafting scuba gear or using a strong underwater mount like a Basilosaurus or a Tamed Tusoteuthis is highly recommended. The Basilosaurus is particularly useful because it has high health, can regenerate quickly, and is immune to the stun effects of Eurypterids. If youÔÇÖre playing solo, a Basilosaurus is a great choice due to its survivability. For tribes, coordinating with multiple players using high-level water mounts can make the process faster and safer.

Start by heading to the deep ocean areas of the map. On The Island, for example, the best locations are around the underwater caves and trenches. On other maps like Ragnarok or Valguero, black pearls can be found in specific underwater regions or caves. Once you locate Eurypterids, approach them carefully. They deal torpor damage, which can knock you out if youÔÇÖre not prepared. Use your mount to kill them, then harvest their bodies using a metal pick or a creature with high harvesting efficiency, such as a Megalodon or a Mosasaurus. Tusoteuthis can also be tamed and used to harvest black pearls from other creatures, as they have a unique ability to extract resources efficiently.

Resource requirements for this process include scuba gear, a strong underwater mount, and weapons or tools for harvesting. If youÔÇÖre using a Basilosaurus, make sure it has high health and melee damage to handle Eurypterids and other threats. For tribes, consider assigning roles, such as one player focusing on combat while another handles harvesting. This division of labor can optimize efficiency.

One common mistake is underestimating the dangers of the deep ocean. Eurypterids, jellyfish, and other hostile creatures can quickly overwhelm unprepared players. Always bring medical brews or stimulants to counteract torpor effects. Another mistake is not bringing enough oxygen or food for your mount, which can lead to drowning or starvation. Plan your trips carefully and avoid overextending.

Advanced techniques include using a Tamed Tusoteuthis to farm black pearls. Tusoteuthis can grab smaller creatures and extract resources directly, making them highly efficient for this task. Additionally, using a Tek Suit or Tek Transmitter can help you transport large quantities of black pearls quickly. If youÔÇÖre playing on a map with underwater caves, consider setting up a small outpost nearby to store resources and repair equipment.

For solo players, focus on taming a Basilosaurus and leveling its health and melee damage. This will allow you to farm black pearls safely and efficiently. Tribes can benefit from coordinating efforts, such as using multiple mounts to clear areas faster or setting up underwater turrets to defend against hostile creatures.

In summary, farming black pearls requires preparation, the right equipment, and a strong underwater mount. Focus on Eurypterids and Tusoteuthis for the best results, and always be mindful of the dangers in the deep ocean. With careful planning and execution, you can gather enough black pearls to craft advanced base structures and progress further in ARK: Survival Evolved.