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 Jerky and the Tek Replicator. It is obtained from Ammonites, which are passive sea creatures found in the ocean. Gathering Ammonite Bile requires careful planning and preparation, 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 large, shelled creatures that resemble prehistoric mollusks. They are found in the ocean, typically in deeper waters, and are often accompanied by other sea creatures like Megalodons, Eels, or Jellyfish. Ammonites do not attack players, but they are not easy to harvest either. To gather Ammonite Bile, you must kill the Ammonite and then harvest its body using a tamed creature with high harvesting efficiency, such as a Mosasaurus, Megalodon, or a high-level Therizinosaurus with the right harvesting stats. Using tools like a Metal Pick or Hatchet is less efficient and not recommended.

To begin, you will need to prepare for an underwater expedition. First, ensure you have the necessary equipment, such as Scuba Gear or Lazarus Chowder to extend your underwater breathing time. A strong underwater mount is essential for both protection and harvesting. A high-level Basilosaurus is an excellent choice because it is immune to the stun effects of Eels and Jellyfish, making it safer to navigate the ocean. Alternatively, a Megalodon or Mosasaurus can work, but you must be cautious of Eels and Jellyfish. Bring a Cryopod to store your mount if you need to dismount and collect resources or escape quickly.

Once you are prepared, head to the ocean biome where Ammonites spawn. Popular locations include the deep waters around the western and southern coasts of The Island map. Use your mount to scout the area and locate Ammonites. Be cautious of aggressive creatures like Alpha Megalodons or packs of Eels, as they can quickly overwhelm you. If you encounter these threats, either fight them off with your mount or retreat and return later.

When you find an Ammonite, approach it carefully. Ammonites are slow-moving and will not attack, but their surroundings may be dangerous. Use your mount to kill the Ammonite quickly. Once it is dead, dismount and harvest its body using your mount. A Mosasaurus or Megalodon with high melee damage will yield more Ammonite Bile per kill. If you are using a Therizinosaurus, ensure it has points invested in Power Harvesting to maximize the yield. Each Ammonite typically drops 1-3 Ammonite Bile, so you may need to kill several to gather a significant amount.

One common mistake is underestimating the dangers of the ocean. Even with a strong mount, you can easily be overwhelmed by packs of predators or caught off guard by an Alpha creature. Always be aware of your surroundings and have an escape plan. Another mistake is using inefficient harvesting tools. While it is possible to harvest Ammonite Bile with a Metal Pick or Hatchet, the yield is much lower compared to using a high-level mount with good harvesting stats.

For advanced players, consider using a Tek Suit to navigate the ocean more efficiently. The Tek Chestpiece provides underwater breathing, and the Tek Boots allow for faster movement, making it easier to avoid threats. Additionally, using a tamed Tusoteuthis (Squid) can be highly effective, as it has excellent harvesting capabilities and can defend itself against most ocean predators. However, taming a Tusoteuthis is a challenging task and requires preparation.

If you are playing in a tribe, coordinate with your teammates to gather Ammonite Bile more efficiently. One player can focus on scouting and killing Ammonites, while another handles harvesting and resource management. This division of labor can save time and reduce the risk of losing resources or mounts to predators. Solo players should prioritize safety and efficiency, ensuring they have a strong mount and adequate supplies before venturing into the ocean.

In summary, gathering Ammonite Bile requires preparation, a strong underwater mount, and careful navigation of the ocean biome. Use high-level creatures like Mosasaurus, Megalodon, or Therizinosaurus for harvesting, and always be aware of the dangers in the ocean. Avoid common mistakes like using inefficient tools or underestimating predators, and consider advanced techniques like using a Tek Suit or Tusoteuthis for optimal results. With the right strategy, you can efficiently gather Ammonite Bile and use it to craft advanced items in ARK: Survival Evolved.