What are the best ways to gather ammonite bile in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Ammonite Bile is a valuable resource in ARK: Survival Evolved, primarily used for crafting certain advanced items like the Gasoline alternative, Bio Toxin, and other high-tier recipes. It is obtained from Ammonites, which are passive, snail-like creatures found in the ocean. Gathering Ammonite Bile requires careful planning and execution, especially since Ammonites are not aggressive but are often surrounded by dangerous marine predators. Below is a detailed guide on how to efficiently gather Ammonite Bile, covering mechanics, strategies, and tips.

Ammonites are found in the ocean biome, typically in deeper waters. They are slow-moving and do not attack, but they are often accompanied by hostile creatures like Megalodons, Electrophorus, or Tusoteuthis. To gather Ammonite Bile, you must kill the Ammonite and harvest its body. The bile is not guaranteed on every kill, so you may need to hunt multiple Ammonites to collect a significant amount. The best tools for harvesting Ammonite Bile are creatures with high harvesting efficiency, such as a Therizinosaurus or a Megalodon with high melee damage. Using a metal pick or hatchet can also yield bile, but the amount will be lower compared to using a tamed creature.

To begin gathering Ammonite Bile, you will need to prepare for an underwater expedition. First, ensure you have a strong water mount, such as a Basilosaurus, Mosasaurus, or Megalodon. These creatures provide mobility and protection in the ocean. A Basilosaurus is particularly useful because it is immune to the stun effects of Electrophorus and has high health, making it a safe choice for underwater exploration. Additionally, equip yourself with scuba gear or Lazarus Chowder to extend your underwater breathing time. Bring a few oxygen tanks and medical brews in case of emergencies.

Once you are prepared, head to the ocean and locate Ammonites. They are commonly found near underwater caves or in open ocean areas. Use your mount to approach the Ammonite carefully, as other predators may be nearby. If you encounter hostile creatures, clear them out before focusing on the Ammonite. Once the area is safe, attack the Ammonite with your mount or weapon. After killing it, harvest the body immediately to collect the bile. If you are using a tamed creature, make sure it has high melee damage to maximize the yield.

One common mistake is underestimating the dangers of the ocean. Even with a strong mount, you can easily be overwhelmed by packs of Megalodons or Electrophorus. Always scout the area before engaging an Ammonite, and be ready to retreat if necessary. Another mistake is not bringing enough supplies. Running out of oxygen or health underwater can be fatal, so always carry extra resources. Additionally, avoid using low-damage tools or creatures for harvesting, as this will result in less bile per kill.

For advanced players, optimizing bile collection can involve breeding high-melee damage creatures specifically for harvesting. A Therizinosaurus with points invested in melee damage can yield large amounts of bile per kill. Another strategy is to set up an underwater base or taming pen near Ammonite spawns. This allows you to store resources and respawn nearby if you die. You can also use a tamed Tusoteuthis to grab and kill Ammonites quickly, as it has a powerful attack and can harvest efficiently.

Resource requirements for gathering Ammonite Bile include a strong water mount, scuba gear or Lazarus Chowder, and weapons or tools for harvesting. If you are playing solo, prioritize safety and efficiency by using a Basilosaurus or other tanky mount. In a tribe, you can coordinate with teammates to clear out predators and harvest multiple Ammonites simultaneously. Communication and teamwork are key to maximizing bile collection in a tribe setting.

In summary, gathering Ammonite Bile in ARK: Survival Evolved requires preparation, caution, and the right tools. Use a strong water mount, clear out predators, and harvest with high-melee creatures or tools for the best results. Avoid common mistakes like underestimating ocean dangers or using inefficient harvesting methods. Advanced techniques like breeding specialized creatures or setting up underwater bases can further optimize your bile collection. Whether playing solo or in a tribe, careful planning and execution will ensure you gather Ammonite Bile efficiently and safely.