What is the best way to gather chitin and keratin in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Gathering chitin and keratin in ARK: Survival Evolved is essential for crafting items like cementing paste, armor, and saddles. These resources are primarily obtained from creatures with exoskeletons, such as trilobites, scorpions, spiders, and mantises. HereÔÇÖs a detailed guide on how to efficiently gather these materials, including strategies, tips, and considerations for both solo players and tribes.

To start, chitin and keratin are harvested from specific creatures. Trilobites, found in shallow waters, are a good early-game source of chitin. Scorpions, spiders, and arthropluera (centipede-like creatures) are also excellent sources, especially in caves. Keratin is primarily obtained from creatures like turtles, carbonemys, and triceratops. Both resources can be harvested using tools like hatchets, picks, or tamed creatures with high melee damage.

For early-game players, trilobites are the easiest target. They are passive and can be found along beaches or in shallow waters. Use a pickaxe to harvest chitin from them, as it yields more chitin than a hatchet. However, trilobites are fragile and can be killed quickly, so be careful not to overhit them. If youÔÇÖre near a cave, scorpions and spiders are abundant and provide a significant amount of chitin. Be cautious, though, as these creatures are aggressive and can inflict torpor, which can knock you out if not managed properly.

Mid to late-game players can optimize chitin and keratin gathering by using tamed creatures. The Sabertooth is one of the best early tames for this purpose. It has a high melee damage multiplier for harvesting chitin and keratin, making it efficient for farming these resources. Another excellent option is the Megatherium, a giant sloth that gains a buff called "Insect Killer" after killing insects, which increases its damage and harvesting efficiency. This makes it ideal for clearing caves filled with scorpions and spiders.

For keratin, tamed creatures like the Direwolf or Therizinosaurus are highly effective. The Direwolf has a high melee damage output and can quickly harvest keratin from creatures like turtles and triceratops. The Therizinosaurus, while harder to tame, is versatile and can gather both chitin and keratin efficiently. Its ability to harvest a wide range of resources makes it a valuable addition to any resource-gathering team.

When venturing into caves for chitin, preparation is key. Caves are dangerous, with high-level creatures and environmental hazards like lava or tight spaces. Bring a strong mount like a Sabertooth or Megatherium, and equip yourself with armor, weapons, and medical supplies. Torches or a light source are also essential, as caves are dark. If youÔÇÖre playing solo, consider bringing a backup mount or a cryopod to store your creature in case of emergencies.

For tribes, coordination can make resource gathering more efficient. Assign roles to tribe members, such as one person scouting for creatures while others focus on harvesting. Using a Quetzal or Argentavis to transport heavy loads of resources back to your base can save time. Additionally, tribes can set up outposts near resource-rich areas like caves to reduce travel time.

Common mistakes to avoid include overestimating your ability to handle cave creatures without proper preparation. Always bring a strong mount and healing items. Another mistake is using the wrong tool for harvesting. For example, using a hatchet on a trilobite yields less chitin than a pickaxe. Always use the appropriate tool for the resource youÔÇÖre targeting.

Advanced techniques include breeding creatures like Sabertooths or Megatheriums for higher melee damage, which increases harvesting efficiency. Imprinting these creatures also boosts their stats, making them even more effective. Additionally, using a chainsaw late-game can yield large amounts of chitin and keratin from corpses, though it requires gasoline and is less efficient than specialized tames.

Resource requirements for efficient chitin and keratin gathering include strong weapons, armor, and tools. For taming creatures, youÔÇÖll need narcotics, raw meat, and berries, depending on the creature. Always carry extra supplies like food, water, and medical brews when venturing into dangerous areas.

In summary, gathering chitin and keratin in ARK requires a combination of the right tools, tamed creatures, and preparation. Early-game players should focus on trilobites and basic tools, while mid to late-game players can optimize their efforts with tames like Sabertooths, Megatheriums, and Therizinosaurus. Tribes can benefit from coordinated efforts and transportation mounts, while solo players should prioritize safety and preparation. By following these strategies and avoiding common mistakes, you can efficiently gather the resources needed for advanced crafting and survival.