What is the best way to gather alpha mosasaur teeth in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Gathering alpha mosasaur teeth in ARK: Survival Evolved is a challenging but rewarding task, as these teeth are essential for crafting certain high-tier items like the Tek Replicator. Alpha mosasaurs are large, aggressive aquatic creatures found in the ocean, and their teeth can only be obtained by killing them. HereÔÇÖs a detailed guide on how to efficiently gather alpha mosasaur teeth, covering mechanics, strategies, and tips.

First, you need to understand the mechanics of alpha mosasaurs. These creatures are among the strongest predators in the ocean, with high health, damage, and a powerful attack that can easily destroy unprepared players or tames. They are typically found in deep ocean biomes, often near underwater caves or trenches. Alpha mosasaurs are easily identifiable by their glowing red aura and larger size compared to regular mosasaurs. When killed, they drop valuable loot, including alpha mosasaur teeth, which are automatically added to your inventory.

To prepare for hunting alpha mosasaurs, youÔÇÖll need strong aquatic tames and proper equipment. The best tames for this task are high-level basilosaurus or tusoteuthis (giant squid). Basilosaurus are excellent because they have high health, good damage, and immunity to the stun effects of jellyfish and eels. Tusoteuthis, on the other hand, can grab and immobilize the alpha mosasaur, making the fight easier. Make sure your tames are well-leveled, with points invested in health and melee damage. Additionally, equip them with a good saddle to reduce incoming damage.

Before heading out, gather the necessary resources. Bring medical brews or cooked meat to heal yourself and your tames during the fight. YouÔÇÖll also need scuba gear or a tek suit to breathe underwater, as well as flippers for faster movement. If youÔÇÖre using ranged weapons, bring crossbows or harpoon guns with plenty of ammunition. However, relying on your tames for damage is generally more effective than using weapons.

When hunting alpha mosasaurs, start by scouting the deep ocean areas. Use a fast aquatic tame like an ichthyosaurus or a basilosaurus to locate the alpha mosasaur without engaging it. Once youÔÇÖve found one, assess the situation. If there are other dangerous creatures nearby, such as alpha megalodons or packs of mantas, clear them out first to avoid being overwhelmed during the fight.

Engage the alpha mosasaur carefully. If youÔÇÖre using a basilosaurus, stay close to its belly to avoid its powerful bite attacks. Use hit-and-run tactics, dealing damage and then retreating to heal if necessary. If youÔÇÖre using a tusoteuthis, grab the alpha mosasaur with its tentacles and focus on dealing damage while itÔÇÖs immobilized. Be mindful of your tameÔÇÖs health and stamina, as prolonged fights can be dangerous.

One common mistake is underestimating the alpha mosasaurÔÇÖs damage output. Even with strong tames, itÔÇÖs easy to lose the fight if youÔÇÖre not careful. Always keep an eye on your tameÔÇÖs health and be ready to retreat if things go south. Another mistake is engaging without proper preparation. Without scuba gear or strong tames, youÔÇÖll likely die before even landing a hit.

For advanced players, consider using a pack of strong tames to take down the alpha mosasaur more quickly. For example, a group of high-level basilosaurus or even a mix of basilosaurus and tusoteuthis can make the fight much easier. Coordinate with your tribe members if youÔÇÖre playing in a group, assigning roles such as tanking, healing, and dealing damage.

Resource management is crucial during the hunt. Make sure you have enough food and medical supplies to sustain yourself and your tames. If youÔÇÖre playing solo, consider bringing a second tame as a backup in case your primary tame dies. Additionally, bring a cryopod to store your tames if you need to make a quick escape.

In terms of tribe considerations, hunting alpha mosasaurs is much easier with a group. Tribe members can provide support by healing tames, dealing additional damage, or distracting other hostile creatures. If youÔÇÖre playing solo, focus on using a single strong tame and avoid unnecessary risks.

A specific scenario to consider is hunting in the waters around the Western Peninsula on The Island map. This area is known for spawning alpha mosasaurs, but itÔÇÖs also populated by other dangerous creatures like alpha megalodons and packs of mantas. Clear the area of threats before engaging the alpha mosasaur to avoid being overwhelmed.

In summary, gathering alpha mosasaur teeth requires careful preparation, strong tames, and strategic combat. Use basilosaurus or tusoteuthis for the fight, bring plenty of healing items, and scout the area before engaging. Avoid common mistakes like underestimating the alpha mosasaurÔÇÖs strength or engaging without proper gear. With the right approach, you can efficiently gather alpha mosasaur teeth and use them to craft advanced Tek items.