What are the best ways to farm black pearls for base building in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Black pearls are one of the most valuable resources in ARK: Survival Evolved, especially for crafting advanced items and structures. They are primarily used in high-tier base building, such as crafting Tek-tier structures, and are essential for late-game progression. Farming black pearls efficiently requires careful planning, the right tools, and sometimes the help of tamed creatures. 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, found in the ocean, are the most reliable source, but they are dangerous and require preparation. Trilobites and Ammonites are easier to kill but yield fewer pearls. Tusoteuthis, a deep-sea creature, drops a large amount of black pearls but is challenging to defeat. Additionally, black pearls can be harvested from certain underwater nodes in specific maps like Aberration and Genesis.

To farm black pearls, youÔÇÖll need the right equipment and tames. A strong water mount, such as a Basilosaurus or a Megalodon, is essential for ocean farming. Basilosaurus is particularly useful because it is immune to the stun effect of Eurypterids. For deep-sea farming, a high-level Tusoteuthis or a well-equipped underwater team is recommended. YouÔÇÖll also need scuba gear or Lazarus Chowder to extend your underwater breathing time, as well as weapons like crossbows or harpoon guns for killing creatures.

Start by preparing your gear and tames. Craft scuba gear or Lazarus Chowder to ensure you can stay underwater for extended periods. If youÔÇÖre farming in the ocean, tame a Basilosaurus or a high-level Megalodon. Basilosaurus is ideal because it can withstand Eurypterid attacks and has good health regeneration. For deep-sea farming, consider taming a Tusoteuthis or using a team of strong water tames like Mosasaurs or Plesiosaurs. Bring along a few high-damage weapons and plenty of ammunition.

When farming in the ocean, head to areas where Eurypterids spawn, such as the underwater caves or deep ocean biomes. Use your Basilosaurus or Megalodon to kill Eurypterids, as they drop a decent amount of black pearls. Be cautious of their stun attack, which can dismount you and leave you vulnerable. If youÔÇÖre farming in deep-sea areas, look for Tusoteuthis. These creatures drop a large number of black pearls but are tough to kill. Use a team of strong water tames or a high-level Tusoteuthis to take them down.

For solo players, farming black pearls can be challenging but manageable with the right preparation. Focus on taming a Basilosaurus for ocean farming, as it provides both mobility and safety. For deep-sea farming, consider using a high-level Tusoteuthis or a well-equipped underwater team. Solo players should avoid engaging multiple Eurypterids at once, as their stun attacks can be deadly. Instead, lure them one by one and kill them safely.

Tribes have an advantage when farming black pearls, as they can coordinate efforts and use multiple tames to maximize efficiency. A tribe can assign roles, such as one player handling the Basilosaurus while another focuses on killing Eurypterids. For deep-sea farming, tribes can use a team of Mosasaurs or Plesiosaurs to take down Tusoteuthis quickly. Communication and coordination are key to successful black pearl farming in a tribe setting.

Common mistakes to avoid include underestimating the danger of Eurypterids and Tusoteuthis. Eurypterids can stun you and your mount, leaving you vulnerable to other predators. Always approach them with caution and avoid fighting multiple at once. Tusoteuthis are powerful and can easily destroy unprepared tames. Make sure your tames are high-level and well-equipped before engaging them. Another mistake is not bringing enough resources, such as oxygen or healing items. Always prepare thoroughly before heading out to farm black pearls.

Advanced techniques include using a Gacha to passively farm black pearls. Gachas can produce black pearls as one of their crystal drops, making them a valuable addition to your base. To optimize black pearl farming, consider setting up an underwater base near Eurypterid spawns. This allows you to store resources and respawn quickly if you die. Additionally, using a Tek Suit can make underwater farming easier, as it provides mobility and protection.

In conclusion, farming black pearls in ARK: Survival Evolved requires preparation, the right tames, and careful execution. Whether youÔÇÖre playing solo or in a tribe, focus on safety and efficiency to maximize your black pearl yield. With the right strategy, you can gather enough black pearls to craft advanced structures and progress through the game.