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

Gathering chitin in ARK: Survival Evolved is essential for crafting items like cementing paste, which is used in advanced structures and equipment. Chitin is primarily obtained by harvesting the remains of certain creatures, such as trilobites, scorpions, spiders, mantises, and arthropluera. The most efficient way to gather chitin depends on your progression level, available tools, and tamed dinosaurs. HereÔÇÖs a detailed guide to help you maximize your chitin collection.

To start, youÔÇÖll need the right tools. Early in the game, a pickaxe is your best option for harvesting chitin. However, as you progress, using tamed dinosaurs like the Sabertooth, Megatherium, or Direwolf will significantly increase your efficiency. These creatures have higher damage output and can harvest chitin more effectively than hand tools. For example, a Sabertooth with high melee damage can gather large amounts of chitin from scorpions or spiders in a short time.

One of the best strategies for gathering chitin is to target specific creatures. Trilobites, found along beaches and shallow waters, are a great early-game source of chitin. They are passive and easy to kill, but they provide a smaller amount of chitin compared to other creatures. Scorpions and spiders, commonly found in caves, are more challenging but yield more chitin. Arthropluera, which are large centipede-like creatures found in caves, also drop a significant amount of chitin but are dangerous and require careful handling.

Caves are the most efficient locations for chitin farming, but they are also the most dangerous. Before entering a cave, ensure you have adequate preparation. Bring a strong tamed dinosaur like a Sabertooth or Megatherium, as well as weapons like a crossbow or shotgun for emergencies. Armor and medical supplies are also essential, as cave creatures can deal heavy damage. The Megatherium is particularly effective in caves because it gains a buff called "Insect Killer" after killing insects, which increases its damage and harvesting efficiency.

When farming chitin, avoid common mistakes like underestimating the dangers of caves or using inefficient tools. For example, using a hatchet instead of a pickaxe will yield less chitin. Additionally, avoid engaging multiple enemies at once, as this can quickly overwhelm you. Always prioritize safety by clearing areas before harvesting and keeping an eye out for ambushes.

Advanced techniques include using a Megatherium to farm chitin in the Swamp Cave on The Island map. This cave is filled with insects, and the MegatheriumÔÇÖs buff makes it incredibly efficient. Another advanced method is to use a chainsaw, which can harvest large amounts of chitin from corpses. However, chainsaws require gasoline and are more suited for late-game players.

Resource requirements for chitin farming include weapons, armor, and tools. If youÔÇÖre using dinosaurs, ensure they are properly leveled with points in melee damage and health. For solo players, taming a Sabertooth or Direwolf is a good starting point, as they are easier to manage alone. In a tribe, coordinating with teammates to clear caves and protect each other can make the process faster and safer.

Specific examples of chitin farming include the Lower South Cave on The Island, which is relatively easy and contains scorpions and spiders. For more advanced players, the Swamp Cave offers a high concentration of insects but requires a gas mask or scuba gear due to the toxic environment. On Scorched Earth, mantises in the desert are a good source of chitin, while on Aberration, the surface and certain caves contain arthropluera.

In summary, gathering chitin in ARK requires the right tools, preparation, and strategy. Early-game players should focus on trilobites and basic tools, while mid-to-late-game players can use tamed dinosaurs and advanced equipment to farm chitin more efficiently. Caves are the best locations for chitin, but they require careful planning and strong defenses. By following these tips and avoiding common mistakes, you can gather chitin effectively and use it to craft essential items for your survival and progression in ARK: Survival Evolved.