What is the best way to store fertilized eggs in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Storing fertilized eggs in ARK: Survival Evolved is a critical aspect of breeding and genetics, as it allows players to preserve valuable genetic lines and plan for future generations. Proper storage ensures that eggs remain viable and ready for hatching when the time is right. HereÔÇÖs a detailed guide on how to store fertilized eggs effectively, covering mechanics, strategies, and considerations.

First, itÔÇÖs important to understand the mechanics of fertilized eggs. Fertilized eggs are produced when two creatures of the same species mate. These eggs have a limited lifespan and will spoil if not stored correctly. The spoilage timer varies depending on the species, with some eggs lasting only a few hours and others lasting several days. To prevent spoilage, eggs must be stored in an environment that matches their required temperature. Each species has a specific temperature range for incubation, and the same range applies to storage. If the egg is too hot or too cold, it will lose health and eventually spoil.

To store fertilized eggs, you need to create a controlled environment. The most common method is to use air conditioners, which can regulate the temperature around the eggs. Air conditioners are unlocked at level 61 and require electronics, polymer, and metal ingots to craft. Place multiple air conditioners in a small, enclosed space to create a stable temperature zone. The number of air conditioners needed depends on the species of the egg and the ambient temperature of your location. For example, eggs from cold-adapted creatures like Yutyrannus may require more air conditioners in a hot biome, while eggs from desert creatures like Wyverns may need fewer in a cold biome.

Another option for temperature control is using standing torches or campfires for heat and preserving bins or refrigerators for cooling. However, these methods are less efficient than air conditioners and may not provide the precise temperature control needed for some species. Refrigerators, unlocked at level 35, are particularly useful for storing eggs temporarily, as they slow down the spoilage timer significantly. However, refrigerators cannot maintain the exact temperature required for long-term storage, so they are best used as a short-term solution.

When setting up your egg storage area, consider the layout of your base. Place the storage room in a secure location to protect the eggs from raids or wild creatures. Reinforce the walls and doors with strong materials like metal or tek to prevent unauthorized access. If youÔÇÖre playing in a tribe, assign roles to ensure that only trusted members can access the storage area. For solo players, prioritize security by using turrets or traps to deter intruders.

Resource management is another key consideration. Crafting air conditioners and refrigerators requires a significant amount of materials, so plan ahead and gather the necessary resources. Electronics and polymer can be particularly challenging to obtain, so focus on farming these materials early in your progression. Additionally, ensure you have a steady supply of fuel for your air conditioners or refrigerators, as they consume gasoline or electricity over time.

One common mistake is neglecting to check the temperature of the storage area. Even with air conditioners, the ambient temperature can fluctuate due to weather changes or nearby heat sources. Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature and adjust the number of air conditioners as needed. Another mistake is overcrowding the storage area, which can make it difficult to manage the eggs and maintain the correct temperature. Leave enough space between eggs to ensure proper airflow and temperature distribution.

Advanced techniques for egg storage include using tek generators and tek troughs for more efficient temperature control. Tek generators, unlocked at level 100, provide a large amount of power and can support multiple air conditioners without the need for gasoline. Tek troughs, unlocked at level 95, can also help maintain the temperature in a larger area, making them ideal for storing multiple eggs at once. Additionally, consider using cryopods for long-term storage. Cryopods, unlocked at level 51, allow you to freeze creatures and eggs indefinitely, preserving them without the need for temperature control. However, cryopods require cryo sickness cooldowns, so they are best used for eggs you donÔÇÖt plan to hatch immediately.

In summary, storing fertilized eggs in ARK: Survival Evolved requires careful planning and resource management. Use air conditioners or refrigerators to maintain the correct temperature, and secure your storage area to protect your valuable eggs. Monitor the temperature regularly and avoid common mistakes like overcrowding or neglecting resource preparation. Advanced techniques like tek generators and cryopods can further optimize your storage system, ensuring your breeding lines remain viable and ready for future generations. Whether youÔÇÖre playing solo or in a tribe, these strategies will help you master the art of egg storage and breeding in ARK.