What are the best ways to gather rare mushrooms in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Gathering rare mushrooms in ARK: Survival Evolved is essential for crafting certain items, such as Lesser Antidote, Custom Consumable recipes, and some advanced recipes like the Mindwipe Tonic. Rare mushrooms are primarily found in specific biomes and require careful planning to collect efficiently. Below is a detailed guide on how to gather rare mushrooms, including mechanics, strategies, and tips.

Rare mushrooms are most commonly found in swamp biomes, caves, and underwater locations. They grow on specific plants, such as the large mushroom trees in the swamps or the smaller mushroom clusters in caves. To gather them, you need to approach these plants and harvest them using the correct tools or dinosaurs. The most effective tools for harvesting rare mushrooms are the Metal Pick or a Therizinosaurus with points invested in Power Harvesting. Other dinosaurs like the Moschops or Beelzebufo can also gather rare mushrooms, but they are less efficient compared to the Therizinosaurus.

To begin gathering rare mushrooms, you should first prepare the necessary tools and equipment. If you are using a Therizinosaurus, ensure it is tamed and leveled up with points in Power Harvesting. If you are gathering manually, craft a Metal Pick, as it yields more rare mushrooms than a Stone Pick. Additionally, bring a strong mount for protection, as swamp biomes and caves are filled with dangerous creatures like Sarcosuchus, Titanoboas, and Megalodons. Armor, weapons, and medical supplies are also recommended to survive these hostile environments.

When gathering rare mushrooms in the swamp biome, look for the large mushroom trees. These trees are easy to spot due to their unique appearance, with large mushroom caps growing on their trunks. Approach the tree and use your Metal Pick or Therizinosaurus to harvest it. Each harvest will yield a decent amount of rare mushrooms, but be prepared to defend yourself from nearby threats. Swamps are home to aggressive creatures, so having a strong mount like a Carnotaurus or Spino can help you fend off attackers while you gather.

Caves are another excellent source of rare mushrooms. Many caves contain clusters of small mushrooms growing on the walls or floors. These clusters can be harvested using the same tools or dinosaurs. However, caves are even more dangerous than swamps, as they often contain high-level predators like Arthropluera, Onyc, and Purlovia. Bring a strong mount like a Sabertooth or Thylacoleo for cave exploration, and consider using a Gas Mask or Scuba Gear to protect against environmental hazards like poison gas or low oxygen levels.

Underwater locations, such as the ocean floor or underwater caves, also contain rare mushrooms. These can be harvested from seaweed or coral formations. To gather underwater, you will need Scuba Gear or a strong aquatic mount like a Basilosaurus or Megalodon. Be cautious of underwater predators like Electrophorus and Cnidaria, which can stun or dismount you.

One common mistake players make is underestimating the dangers of swamp and cave biomes. Always bring adequate protection, including armor, weapons, and a strong mount. Another mistake is using inefficient tools, such as a Stone Pick, which yields fewer rare mushrooms compared to a Metal Pick or Therizinosaurus. Additionally, players often forget to bring medical supplies, which are crucial for surviving poison attacks from creatures like Titanoboas or Arthropluera.

For advanced players, optimizing rare mushroom gathering can involve using a Therizinosaurus with high Power Harvesting stats. This dinosaur can gather large quantities of rare mushrooms quickly, making it the most efficient option. Additionally, setting up a small outpost near a swamp or cave entrance can save time and resources. This outpost can include storage containers, a bed for respawning, and a taming pen for capturing new mounts.

Resource requirements for gathering rare mushrooms include a Metal Pick or Therizinosaurus, armor, weapons, medical supplies, and a strong mount. If you are exploring underwater, Scuba Gear or an aquatic mount is also necessary. Preparation is key, as these biomes are dangerous and require careful planning to navigate safely.

For solo players, gathering rare mushrooms can be challenging due to the high level of danger in swamp and cave biomes. Focus on taming a strong mount and bringing plenty of supplies to ensure your survival. Tribe players can divide tasks, with some members gathering while others provide protection. This teamwork can make the process faster and safer.

In summary, gathering rare mushrooms in ARK: Survival Evolved requires careful preparation and strategy. Use efficient tools like a Metal Pick or Therizinosaurus, bring strong mounts and supplies, and be cautious of the dangers in swamp, cave, and underwater biomes. With the right approach, you can gather rare mushrooms effectively and use them to craft valuable items.