What is the best way to raise a baby Astrocetus in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Raising a baby Astrocetus in ARK: Survival Evolved is a challenging but rewarding process. The Astrocetus, also known as the Space Whale, is a massive, floating creature found in the Genesis Part 1 map. It is unique due to its ability to hover and its powerful attacks, making it a valuable asset for both PvE and PvP scenarios. However, raising a baby Astrocetus requires careful planning, resource management, and attention to detail.

To begin, you must first obtain an Astrocetus egg or breed two adult Astrocetus. Breeding requires a male and female Astrocetus, which must be set to wander in a controlled environment. Once they mate, the female will lay an egg. The egg must be incubated at the correct temperature, which for the Astrocetus is extremely cold. You will need to place the egg in a room with air conditioners or use other cooling methods like Dimetrodons or Otters to maintain the required temperature. Once the egg hatches, the baby Astrocetus will emerge, and the real work begins.

The baby Astrocetus will require constant feeding and care. Like most creatures in ARK, it will have a food stat that depletes over time. The Astrocetus is a carnivore, so you will need to provide it with raw meat, cooked meat, or prime meat. Early on, the baby will consume food rapidly, so it is essential to have a large stockpile of meat ready. You can use a feeding trough to automate the feeding process, but you must ensure it is always filled. Additionally, the baby will need to be hand-fed at certain stages, so you must monitor its food stat closely.

Imprinting is another critical aspect of raising a baby Astrocetus. Imprinting involves interacting with the baby during its growth stages to increase its stats and loyalty. To imprint, you will need to approach the baby and follow its requests, which may include cuddling, walking, or feeding it specific items. Each successful imprint will increase the baby's imprint percentage, which boosts its stats and makes it more effective in combat. Imprinting also strengthens the bond between the creature and its owner, making it more responsive to commands.

One of the most challenging aspects of raising a baby Astrocetus is its size. The Astrocetus is enormous, even as a baby, so you will need a large, secure area to raise it. This area should be protected from predators and other threats, as the baby will be vulnerable during its early stages. You may need to build a custom enclosure or use natural barriers to keep the baby safe. Additionally, the Astrocetus can float, so you must ensure the area has enough vertical space to accommodate its movement.

Resource management is crucial when raising a baby Astrocetus. You will need a steady supply of meat, as well as other resources like narcotics and stimulants to keep the baby sedated if necessary. It is also a good idea to have a backup generator or alternative power source in case of emergencies. If you are raising the baby in a tribe, you can divide the responsibilities among tribe members to make the process more manageable. For solo players, it is essential to plan ahead and stockpile resources before starting the breeding process.

Common mistakes to avoid when raising a baby Astrocetus include neglecting its food stat, failing to imprint, and not providing a secure environment. The baby will die if its food stat reaches zero, so you must always keep an eye on its hunger. Imprinting is also time-sensitive, so you must be available to interact with the baby when it requests attention. Finally, the baby is vulnerable to attacks, so you must ensure it is protected from predators and other threats.

Advanced techniques for raising a baby Astrocetus include using cryopods to store the baby when you are not actively raising it. This can help you manage your time and resources more effectively. You can also use a Maewing, a creature from the Genesis Part 2 map, to help feed the baby. The Maewing has a special ability that allows it to passively feed nearby babies, reducing the amount of manual feeding required. Additionally, you can use a S+ Nanny, a modded structure, to automate the imprinting process.

In conclusion, raising a baby Astrocetus in ARK: Survival Evolved is a complex but rewarding process. It requires careful planning, resource management, and attention to detail. By following the steps outlined above, you can successfully raise a powerful and loyal Astrocetus that will be a valuable asset in your adventures. Whether you are playing solo or as part of a tribe, the key to success is preparation and dedication. With the right approach, you can master the art of raising Astrocetus and enjoy the benefits of having one of the most unique creatures in the game.