What are the best ways to gather fiber for base building in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Gathering fiber is one of the most essential tasks in ARK: Survival Evolved, as it is used for crafting a wide variety of items, including clothing, tools, and building materials like thatch and wood structures. Fiber is primarily obtained by harvesting plants, and there are several methods to efficiently gather it, depending on your progression level, available tools, and tamed creatures.

The most basic way to gather fiber is by hand-picking plants. This method is available from the start of the game and requires no tools or resources. Simply approach small bushes or ferns and press the interact button to harvest fiber. While this method is simple, it is also time-consuming and yields relatively small amounts of fiber. However, it is a good starting point for new players who have not yet crafted tools or tamed creatures.

Once you have access to basic tools, using a Metal Sickle significantly increases your fiber-gathering efficiency. The Metal Sickle can be crafted at level 20 and requires 8 metal ingots, 10 wood, and 15 fiber to make. When equipped, the sickle allows you to harvest fiber from plants much faster and in larger quantities compared to hand-picking. To use the sickle, simply approach a plant and swing it to collect fiber. This method is highly effective and is a staple for mid-game players who need large amounts of fiber for crafting and building.

For players who have tamed creatures, certain dinosaurs can be used to gather fiber even more efficiently. The most notable fiber-gathering dinosaur is the Therizinosaurus. When equipped with a specific harvesting ability, the Therizinosaurus can gather massive amounts of fiber from plants with each swing. Other creatures like the Gigantopithecus (ape) and the Moschops can also gather fiber, though not as efficiently as the Therizinosaurus. To use these creatures, simply ride or command them to attack plants, and they will automatically collect fiber for you. This method is ideal for late-game players who need to gather fiber in bulk for large-scale building projects.

When gathering fiber, it is important to consider the location. Areas with dense vegetation, such as jungles or riverbanks, are ideal for fiber farming. On maps like The Island, the Redwood Forest and the surrounding areas are excellent spots for fiber gathering. On other maps, such as Ragnarok, the Highlands and the Jungle regions are rich in fiber-producing plants. Always be aware of your surroundings, as these areas are often populated by dangerous creatures that can pose a threat while you are harvesting.

One common mistake players make is neglecting to bring enough tools or backup equipment when gathering fiber. Sickle durability decreases with each use, so it is important to carry multiple sickles or repair materials to avoid being stranded without a tool. Additionally, players should always be prepared for combat, as hostile creatures can appear unexpectedly while you are focused on harvesting.

Advanced players can optimize their fiber-gathering process by using a combination of tools and tamed creatures. For example, you can use a Therizinosaurus to clear large areas of plants quickly, then switch to a sickle for more precise harvesting. This approach maximizes efficiency and ensures you gather as much fiber as possible in the shortest amount of time. Additionally, using a weight-reducing item like the Argentavis or a Tek Suit can help you carry more fiber without being overburdened.

For tribes, fiber gathering can be a team effort. Assigning specific roles, such as one player using a Therizinosaurus while another uses a sickle, can speed up the process and allow for large-scale resource collection. Solo players, on the other hand, should focus on optimizing their own efficiency by using the best tools and creatures available to them.

In summary, gathering fiber in ARK: Survival Evolved can be done through hand-picking, using a Metal Sickle, or employing tamed creatures like the Therizinosaurus. Choosing the right method depends on your progression level and available resources. Always gather in safe, plant-rich areas, and be prepared with backup tools and combat gear. Advanced players can combine tools and creatures for maximum efficiency, while tribes can divide tasks to speed up the process. By following these strategies, you can ensure a steady supply of fiber for all your crafting and building needs.