What is the best way to gather organic polymer in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Organic Polymer is a crucial resource in ARK: Survival Evolved, used for crafting advanced items like Ghillie Armor, Polymer, and various high-tier tools and structures. Unlike regular Polymer, which is crafted from Obsidian and Cementing Paste, Organic Polymer is gathered from specific creatures or sources and cannot be stored for long periods as it spoils over time. HereÔÇÖs a detailed guide on the best ways to gather Organic Polymer efficiently.

The primary sources of Organic Polymer are certain creatures, such as Kairuku, Mantis, Hesperornis, and Deathworms. Each of these creatures drops varying amounts of Organic Polymer when harvested. Kairuku, found in the colder regions of the map, are the most beginner-friendly source. They are passive creatures that do not fight back, making them easy to farm. Mantis, found in the desert biomes, drop a significant amount of Organic Polymer but are more dangerous due to their aggressive nature. Hesperornis, found near water sources, also drop Organic Polymer when harvested, but they are harder to find and require more effort to farm. Deathworms, found in the desert dunes of Scorched Earth or Ragnarok, drop large amounts of Organic Polymer but are extremely dangerous and require strong tames or weapons to defeat.

To gather Organic Polymer from Kairuku, you will need a tool with high harvesting efficiency, such as a Metal Hatchet or a Chainsaw. The Chainsaw is particularly effective as it yields the highest amount of Organic Polymer per Kairuku. Simply approach the Kairuku, use your tool to harvest its body, and collect the Organic Polymer. Be aware that Organic Polymer spoils quickly, so itÔÇÖs best to gather it when you are ready to use it immediately or have a preserving method in place.

For Mantis, you will need a strong tame or weapon to defeat them. A high-level Rex or other powerful carnivore can easily take down a Mantis. Once defeated, use a Metal Hatchet or Chainsaw to harvest the body. Mantis can be dangerous in groups, so itÔÇÖs advisable to approach them cautiously and avoid attracting multiple at once.

Hesperornis can be found near lakes or rivers. They are skittish and will flee if approached, so itÔÇÖs best to use a ranged weapon like a Crossbow or Longneck Rifle to take them down from a distance. Once killed, harvest their bodies with a Metal Hatchet or Chainsaw to collect the Organic Polymer.

Deathworms are the most challenging source of Organic Polymer. They are found in the desert and are highly aggressive. To farm Deathworms, you will need a strong mount like a high-level Rex, Wyvern, or Rock Elemental. Engage the Deathworm carefully, as they deal significant damage and can quickly overwhelm unprepared players. Once defeated, use a Metal Hatchet or Chainsaw to harvest the body for a large amount of Organic Polymer.

One important tip is to use a preserving method to extend the lifespan of Organic Polymer. Placing it in a preserving bin or refrigerator will slow down the spoilage rate, giving you more time to use it. Additionally, using a tamed Pelagornis or other creature with a Polymer-gathering bonus can increase the amount of Organic Polymer you collect per harvest.

Common mistakes to avoid include not preparing adequately for dangerous creatures like Mantis or Deathworms. Always bring strong tames or weapons and ensure you have enough healing items and armor. Another mistake is not using the right tools for harvesting. Using a Stone Hatchet or low-tier tool will yield significantly less Organic Polymer compared to a Metal Hatchet or Chainsaw.

Advanced techniques include setting up a base near a Kairuku spawn point for easy farming. You can also use a tamed Argentavis or other flying mount to transport large amounts of Organic Polymer quickly. For tribes, coordinating efforts to farm Organic Polymer can be highly efficient. Assigning roles, such as one player gathering while another defends, can streamline the process and reduce risks.

In summary, gathering Organic Polymer in ARK requires careful planning and preparation. Whether youÔÇÖre farming Kairuku, Mantis, Hesperornis, or Deathworms, using the right tools and tames is essential. Managing spoilage and coordinating with your tribe can further optimize your efforts. By following these strategies, you can efficiently gather Organic Polymer and use it to craft advanced items and structures in ARK: Survival Evolved.