What is the best way to gather rare resources like black pearls in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Gathering rare resources like black pearls in ARK: Survival Evolved requires careful planning, preparation, and execution. Black pearls are one of the most valuable resources in the game, used for crafting advanced items like Tek-tier gear and saddles. They are primarily found in specific locations and obtained from certain creatures, making them challenging to collect. HereÔÇÖs a detailed guide on how to efficiently gather black pearls.

Black pearls are primarily obtained from three sources: killing or harvesting certain creatures, looting underwater crates, and mining specific nodes. The most common creatures that drop black pearls are Trilobites, Eurypterids, and Tusoteuthis. Trilobites are small, passive creatures found along beaches and shallow waters, but they drop only a few black pearls. Eurypterids, also known as sea scorpions, are aggressive and found in deeper waters, particularly in the ocean biome. They drop a moderate amount of black pearls. Tusoteuthis, a large squid-like creature, drops a significant amount of black pearls but is extremely dangerous and difficult to defeat.

To gather black pearls efficiently, youÔÇÖll need to prepare for underwater exploration. This means having a strong water mount, such as a Basilosaurus, Megalodon, or Mosasaurus. Basilosaurus is highly recommended because it has high health, good speed, and immunity to the stun effects of Cnidaria and Eurypterids. YouÔÇÖll also need scuba gear or Lazarus Chowder to extend your underwater breathing time. Bring weapons like a crossbow or harpoon gun for defense, as well as tools like a pickaxe or chainsaw for harvesting.

Start by locating areas where Eurypterids spawn. These are often found in the deeper parts of the ocean, near underwater caves or trenches. Use your water mount to scout the area and engage Eurypterids carefully. They can inflict torpor, so avoid getting too close without proper protection. Once defeated, use a pickaxe or chainsaw to harvest their bodies for black pearls. Be prepared to fight multiple Eurypterids, as they often travel in groups.

For Tusoteuthis, youÔÇÖll need a much stronger setup. This creature is found in the deepest parts of the ocean and is highly aggressive. Use a high-level water mount with strong attack power, such as a Mosasaurus or a well-bred Megalodon pack. Coordinate with your tribe if playing in a group, as Tusoteuthis can be a tough opponent. Once defeated, harvest its body for a large amount of black pearls.

Another method is to loot underwater crates, which can contain black pearls. These crates are found in specific underwater locations, such as the deep ocean trenches or near underwater caves. Use a fast water mount to locate and loot these crates. Be cautious of hostile creatures in the area, and always have an escape plan.

Mining black pearl nodes is another option, but these are only available in certain maps like Aberration and Genesis. On Aberration, black pearl nodes are found in the Elemental Vault and the surface biome. Use a pickaxe or Ankylosaurus to harvest these nodes. On Genesis, black pearls can be obtained from the lunar biomeÔÇÖs black pearl nodes or by completing missions.

When gathering black pearls, always prioritize safety. The ocean is filled with dangerous creatures like Megalodons, Cnidaria, and Alpha predators. Avoid engaging unnecessary fights and focus on your objective. If playing solo, consider taming a Basilosaurus for its health and immunity to stuns. In a tribe, coordinate roles, such as having one player scout while others defend or harvest.

Common mistakes include venturing into the ocean unprepared, underestimating the danger of Eurypterids, or failing to bring proper tools for harvesting. Always double-check your gear and mount before heading out. Advanced techniques include using a tamed Otter to increase your insulation and reduce the need for scuba gear, or using a Tek Suit for enhanced mobility and protection.

In summary, gathering black pearls requires preparation, the right tools, and a strong water mount. Focus on Eurypterids and Tusoteuthis for the best yields, and always prioritize safety in the dangerous ocean biome. With careful planning and execution, you can efficiently gather this rare and valuable resource.