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

Gathering rare mushrooms in ARK: Survival Evolved is essential for advanced base building, particularly for crafting items like Lesser Antidote, Custom Consumable recipes, and certain advanced structures. Rare mushrooms are a valuable resource, but they can be tricky to obtain in large quantities. HereÔÇÖs a detailed guide on how to efficiently gather rare mushrooms, including mechanics, strategies, and tips.

Rare mushrooms are primarily found in swamp biomes, caves, and underwater locations. They grow on specific plants or can be harvested from certain creatures. The most common method is to harvest them from the large mushroom-like plants found in swamps or caves. These plants are easily identifiable by their glowing, bulbous appearance. However, they are often guarded by dangerous creatures like Sarcosuchus, Titanoboas, or Kaprosuchus in swamps, and by hostile cave creatures in underground areas. This makes gathering rare mushrooms a high-risk activity, so preparation is key.

To begin, youÔÇÖll need the right tools and equipment. A Metal Pick or a Chainsaw is the most efficient tool for harvesting rare mushrooms from plants. The Chainsaw yields the highest amount per harvest, but it requires gasoline and is louder, which can attract unwanted attention. A Metal Pick is a quieter and more accessible option for early to mid-game players. Additionally, bring a strong mount for protection, such as a Carnotaurus, Sabertooth, or even a Rex if youÔÇÖre venturing into dangerous areas. For underwater harvesting, a Baryonyx or Basilosaurus is highly recommended due to their mobility and combat effectiveness.

When gathering rare mushrooms in swamps, approach the glowing mushroom plants carefully. Dismount your dinosaur and use your tool to harvest the plant. Be prepared to defend yourself against aggressive creatures. In caves, the process is similar, but the environment is more confined, so bring a light source like a torch or a helmet with a headlamp attachment. Underwater, rare mushrooms can be harvested from the coral-like plants found in the ocean. Use a strong aquatic mount to fend off threats like Megalodons or Electrophorus.

One advanced technique is to use a Therizinosaurus, which is highly efficient at gathering rare mushrooms. Its harvesting ability is superior to most tools, and it can also defend itself against threats. Another optimization is to set up a small outpost near a swamp or cave entrance. This allows you to store tools, supplies, and harvested mushrooms without needing to travel back to your main base frequently. If youÔÇÖre playing in a tribe, coordinate with teammates to gather resources while others provide security or manage the outpost.

Resource management is crucial when gathering rare mushrooms. Since they spoil quickly, bring a preserving bin or a refrigerator to store them if you plan to gather in bulk. Alternatively, you can craft them into useful items on the spot to prevent spoilage. For solo players, prioritize safety by scouting the area beforehand and avoiding heavily populated zones. Tribe players can divide tasks, with some members gathering while others guard or transport resources.

Common mistakes include venturing into dangerous areas unprepared, neglecting to bring storage solutions, or underestimating the threats in swamps and caves. Always carry medical supplies like Stimulants or Lesser Antidotes to counteract swamp diseases or venom from creatures like Titanoboas. Additionally, avoid overloading your inventory, as this can slow you down and make it harder to escape dangerous situations.

In summary, gathering rare mushrooms requires careful planning, the right tools, and a strong mount for protection. Focus on swamp biomes, caves, and underwater locations, and use efficient harvesting tools like a Chainsaw or Therizinosaurus. Manage your resources wisely to prevent spoilage, and always prioritize safety when exploring dangerous areas. Whether playing solo or in a tribe, these strategies will help you gather rare mushrooms efficiently for advanced base building in ARK: Survival Evolved.