What are the best ways to gather fungal wood in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Fungal Wood is a unique resource in ARK: Survival Evolved that is primarily found in the Aberration and Genesis: Part 1 maps. It is used for crafting various items and structures, such as the Charge Lantern, Charge Battery, and Tek items. Gathering Fungal Wood efficiently requires understanding the mechanics of the resource, the tools needed, and the best strategies to maximize your yield.

To gather Fungal Wood, you need to harvest it from specific trees found in the Aberration and Genesis: Part 1 maps. In Aberration, these trees are typically found in the Bioluminescent and Fertile regions, while in Genesis: Part 1, they are located in the Bog biome. The trees that yield Fungal Wood are distinct in appearance, often glowing or having a unique texture, making them easier to identify.

The most effective tool for harvesting Fungal Wood is the Metal Hatchet. While a Stone Hatchet can also be used, it is less efficient and yields fewer resources. Using a Metal Hatchet will significantly increase the amount of Fungal Wood you gather per tree. Additionally, tamed creatures like the Roll Rat or the Therizinosaurus can be used to harvest Fungal Wood more efficiently. The Roll Rat, in particular, has a special ability that allows it to gather large amounts of Fungal Wood quickly, making it an excellent choice for this task.

When preparing to gather Fungal Wood, it is important to bring the necessary tools and equipment. Ensure you have a Metal Hatchet, as well as a backup in case of durability loss. If you are using a tamed creature, make sure it is saddled and has enough stamina for the task. It is also wise to bring a light source, such as a Charge Lantern or a Glow Pet, especially in the Bioluminescent region of Aberration, where visibility can be low.

One common mistake players make is venturing into dangerous areas unprepared. The regions where Fungal Wood is found are often inhabited by aggressive creatures, such as Ravagers, Karkinos, and Nameless. To avoid unnecessary combat, it is crucial to be aware of your surroundings and have a plan for escaping or defending yourself if needed. Taming a strong mount, like a Rock Drake or a Spino, can provide both protection and mobility, making your resource-gathering trips safer and more efficient.

Advanced techniques for gathering Fungal Wood include using a Tek Suit or a Glider Suit to quickly navigate the terrain and avoid threats. These tools allow you to move swiftly and efficiently, reducing the time spent in dangerous areas. Additionally, setting up a small outpost near the resource-rich areas can save time and resources. This outpost can serve as a storage and crafting station, allowing you to process the Fungal Wood on-site and reduce the need for multiple trips.

Resource management is key when gathering Fungal Wood. Ensure you have enough inventory space to carry the resources, and consider using a tamed creature with high weight capacity, like a Paracer or a Brontosaurus, to transport large quantities. If you are playing in a tribe, coordinating with your teammates can make the process more efficient. Assign roles, such as one player gathering while another provides protection, to maximize productivity and safety.

In solo play, it is even more important to be cautious and prepared. Solo players should focus on taming a strong mount and using tools like the Tek Suit or Glider Suit to enhance mobility and safety. Setting up a small outpost can also be beneficial, as it provides a safe haven to store resources and craft necessary items.

Specific examples of gathering Fungal Wood include venturing into the Bioluminescent region of Aberration with a Roll Rat and a Metal Hatchet. The Roll Rat can quickly harvest large amounts of Fungal Wood, while the Metal Hatchet ensures you get the maximum yield from each tree. In Genesis: Part 1, exploring the Bog biome with a Therizinosaurus can be highly effective, as the Therizinosaurus can gather both Fungal Wood and other resources like Fiber and Thatch simultaneously.

In conclusion, gathering Fungal Wood in ARK: Survival Evolved requires careful preparation, the right tools, and an understanding of the game's mechanics. By using efficient tools like the Metal Hatchet, taming creatures like the Roll Rat or Therizinosaurus, and being aware of the dangers in resource-rich areas, you can maximize your yield and ensure a safe and productive gathering trip. Whether playing solo or in a tribe, these strategies will help you gather Fungal Wood efficiently and effectively.