What are the best ways to gather black pearls in ARK: Survival Evolved?
Black pearls are one of the most valuable resources in ARK: Survival Evolved, used for crafting advanced items like Tek-tier gear and saddles. Gathering black pearls can be challenging due to their rarity and the dangerous creatures that often guard them. HereÔÇÖs a detailed guide on the best ways to gather black pearls, covering mechanics, strategies, and tips for both solo players and tribes.
Black pearls are primarily obtained from certain creatures, such as Trilobites, Eurypterids, Ammonites, and Tusoteuthis. Eurypterids, also known as sea scorpions, are the most common source of black pearls and are found in the ocean. Tusoteuthis, a giant squid, also drops a significant amount of black pearls when killed. Additionally, black pearls can be harvested from dead Ammonites and Trilobites, though these yield smaller amounts. On some maps, black pearls can also be found in specific underwater caves or as loot in deep-sea crates.
To gather black pearls effectively, youÔÇÖll need to prepare for underwater exploration. A strong water mount is essential, such as a Basilosaurus, Megalodon, or Mosasaurus. The Basilosaurus is particularly useful because it has high health, immunity to jellyfish and eel stuns, and can regenerate health quickly. YouÔÇÖll also need scuba gear or Lazarus Chowder to extend your underwater breathing time. Bring weapons like a crossbow or harpoon gun for dealing with hostile creatures, and consider crafting a Cryopod to store and deploy your water mount as needed.
The first step is to locate Eurypterids. These creatures are commonly found in the deeper parts of the ocean, especially around underwater caves or rocky areas. They are aggressive and can deal significant damage, so approach them cautiously. Use your water mount to kill them, as they are weak and can be taken down quickly. Each Eurypterid drops between 1 and 10 black pearls, so youÔÇÖll need to kill several to gather a substantial amount. Be aware that Eurypterids can inflict torpor, so avoid getting too close without a mount.
For larger quantities of black pearls, consider hunting Tusoteuthis. These giant squids are found in the deepest parts of the ocean and are extremely dangerous. They can grab and crush smaller mounts, so use a strong water mount like a Mosasaurus or a well-leveled Basilosaurus. Tusoteuthis drops between 50 and 100 black pearls, making them a highly efficient source. However, they are difficult to kill and require careful preparation, including high-damage weapons and a mount with strong health and stamina.
Another method is to search for black pearls in underwater caves. Some caves contain black pearl nodes that can be harvested with a pickaxe or a metal hatchet. These nodes are rare but can yield a decent amount of black pearls. Be cautious when exploring caves, as they are often guarded by hostile creatures like Megalodons and Eurypterids. Bring a strong mount and plenty of healing items to survive these encounters.
For advanced players, farming black pearls can be optimized by using a tamed Otter. Otters have a unique ability to harvest black pearls from dead creatures more efficiently than players. Simply kill an Eurypterid or Tusoteuthis and have your Otter harvest the body. This method can yield more black pearls than harvesting manually. Additionally, consider using a tamed Gacha, which can produce black pearls as one of its resource crystals. While this method is slower, it provides a passive way to gather black pearls over time.
Common mistakes to avoid include venturing into the ocean unprepared. Without a strong water mount or proper gear, you risk losing your items and tames to hostile creatures. Another mistake is underestimating the danger of Eurypterids and Tusoteuthis. Always approach these creatures with caution and ensure your mount is well-leveled and equipped with a saddle for extra protection. Additionally, avoid exploring underwater caves without a backup plan, such as a Cryopod to escape quickly if needed.
For tribes, coordinating black pearl farming can be highly efficient. Assign roles to tribe members, such as one player scouting for Eurypterids while another hunts Tusoteuthis. Use a Quetzal or Argentavis to transport your water mounts to the ocean, saving time and effort. Tribes can also set up underwater bases near black pearl-rich areas to streamline the farming process. However, be mindful of PvP threats if playing on a PvP server, as underwater bases can be vulnerable to raids.
In summary, gathering black pearls in ARK requires preparation, strategy, and caution. Focus on hunting Eurypterids and Tusoteuthis, explore underwater caves, and use tames like Otters and Gachas to optimize your farming. Whether playing solo or in a tribe, always prioritize safety and efficiency to maximize your black pearl yield. With the right approach, youÔÇÖll have a steady supply of this valuable resource for crafting advanced Tek-tier items.
Black pearls are primarily obtained from certain creatures, such as Trilobites, Eurypterids, Ammonites, and Tusoteuthis. Eurypterids, also known as sea scorpions, are the most common source of black pearls and are found in the ocean. Tusoteuthis, a giant squid, also drops a significant amount of black pearls when killed. Additionally, black pearls can be harvested from dead Ammonites and Trilobites, though these yield smaller amounts. On some maps, black pearls can also be found in specific underwater caves or as loot in deep-sea crates.
To gather black pearls effectively, youÔÇÖll need to prepare for underwater exploration. A strong water mount is essential, such as a Basilosaurus, Megalodon, or Mosasaurus. The Basilosaurus is particularly useful because it has high health, immunity to jellyfish and eel stuns, and can regenerate health quickly. YouÔÇÖll also need scuba gear or Lazarus Chowder to extend your underwater breathing time. Bring weapons like a crossbow or harpoon gun for dealing with hostile creatures, and consider crafting a Cryopod to store and deploy your water mount as needed.
The first step is to locate Eurypterids. These creatures are commonly found in the deeper parts of the ocean, especially around underwater caves or rocky areas. They are aggressive and can deal significant damage, so approach them cautiously. Use your water mount to kill them, as they are weak and can be taken down quickly. Each Eurypterid drops between 1 and 10 black pearls, so youÔÇÖll need to kill several to gather a substantial amount. Be aware that Eurypterids can inflict torpor, so avoid getting too close without a mount.
For larger quantities of black pearls, consider hunting Tusoteuthis. These giant squids are found in the deepest parts of the ocean and are extremely dangerous. They can grab and crush smaller mounts, so use a strong water mount like a Mosasaurus or a well-leveled Basilosaurus. Tusoteuthis drops between 50 and 100 black pearls, making them a highly efficient source. However, they are difficult to kill and require careful preparation, including high-damage weapons and a mount with strong health and stamina.
Another method is to search for black pearls in underwater caves. Some caves contain black pearl nodes that can be harvested with a pickaxe or a metal hatchet. These nodes are rare but can yield a decent amount of black pearls. Be cautious when exploring caves, as they are often guarded by hostile creatures like Megalodons and Eurypterids. Bring a strong mount and plenty of healing items to survive these encounters.
For advanced players, farming black pearls can be optimized by using a tamed Otter. Otters have a unique ability to harvest black pearls from dead creatures more efficiently than players. Simply kill an Eurypterid or Tusoteuthis and have your Otter harvest the body. This method can yield more black pearls than harvesting manually. Additionally, consider using a tamed Gacha, which can produce black pearls as one of its resource crystals. While this method is slower, it provides a passive way to gather black pearls over time.
Common mistakes to avoid include venturing into the ocean unprepared. Without a strong water mount or proper gear, you risk losing your items and tames to hostile creatures. Another mistake is underestimating the danger of Eurypterids and Tusoteuthis. Always approach these creatures with caution and ensure your mount is well-leveled and equipped with a saddle for extra protection. Additionally, avoid exploring underwater caves without a backup plan, such as a Cryopod to escape quickly if needed.
For tribes, coordinating black pearl farming can be highly efficient. Assign roles to tribe members, such as one player scouting for Eurypterids while another hunts Tusoteuthis. Use a Quetzal or Argentavis to transport your water mounts to the ocean, saving time and effort. Tribes can also set up underwater bases near black pearl-rich areas to streamline the farming process. However, be mindful of PvP threats if playing on a PvP server, as underwater bases can be vulnerable to raids.
In summary, gathering black pearls in ARK requires preparation, strategy, and caution. Focus on hunting Eurypterids and Tusoteuthis, explore underwater caves, and use tames like Otters and Gachas to optimize your farming. Whether playing solo or in a tribe, always prioritize safety and efficiency to maximize your black pearl yield. With the right approach, youÔÇÖll have a steady supply of this valuable resource for crafting advanced Tek-tier items.