What are the best strategies for gathering resources in the underwater caves in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Gathering resources in the underwater caves of ARK: Survival Evolved can be both rewarding and challenging due to the unique environment and the dangers it presents. These caves are rich in valuable resources like silica pearls, oil nodes, and rare loot crates, but they are also home to hostile creatures such as eels, jellyfish, and megalodons. To successfully gather resources in these caves, you need to prepare thoroughly, understand the mechanics, and employ effective strategies.

First, you need to prepare the right equipment and tames. Underwater caves are deep and often require a strong aquatic mount to navigate safely. The Basilosaurus is one of the best choices for underwater exploration because it is immune to the stun effects of jellyfish and eels, and it has a large health pool. Alternatively, the Tusoteuthis (squid) is excellent for combat and resource gathering, as it can harvest oil nodes and kill hostile creatures efficiently. You should also equip scuba gear or Lazarus Chowder to extend your oxygen supply, as well as flippers to increase swimming speed. Bring a crossbow or harpoon gun for defense, and consider crafting underwater bases or taming a pack of Ichthyosaurs for additional support.

When entering an underwater cave, always scout the area first. Use a fast aquatic mount like an Ichthyosaur to quickly survey the cave layout and identify resource nodes, loot crates, and potential threats. Mark the locations of silica pearls and oil nodes on your map for easy reference. Be cautious of narrow passages or tight spaces where you might get trapped by hostile creatures. If you encounter eels or jellyfish, try to avoid them or use your mount to kill them from a safe distance. Eels can stun you and your mount, leaving you vulnerable to attacks, while jellyfish can drain your stamina and health quickly.

For resource gathering, focus on silica pearls and oil nodes first, as these are the most valuable resources in underwater caves. Silica pearls are found in clusters on the cave floor and can be harvested by hand or with a metal pick. Oil nodes are typically found on the walls or ceilings of the cave and can be harvested with a pick or a tamed creature like the Ankylosaurus or Tusoteuthis. Be sure to bring a high-capacity mount or multiple creatures to carry the resources, as underwater caves often contain large amounts of materials.

One common mistake is underestimating the dangers of underwater caves. Many players enter without proper preparation and are quickly overwhelmed by hostile creatures or run out of oxygen. Always bring extra scuba tanks or Lazarus Chowder to ensure you have enough oxygen, and avoid staying underwater for too long without a safe place to surface. Another mistake is not bringing enough firepower or tames to handle the threats. A single Basilosaurus or Tusoteuthis can make a huge difference in surviving the cave's dangers.

Advanced techniques include building small underwater bases or taming multiple aquatic creatures to create a support network. For example, you can tame a pack of Ichthyosaurs to act as scouts and distractions while you gather resources with a Basilosaurus or Tusoteuthis. You can also use underwater foundations and airlocks to create safe zones where you can store resources and restock supplies. Additionally, consider using a Cryopod to bring land-based creatures like the Ankylosaurus into the cave for resource gathering, as they can harvest oil nodes more efficiently than most aquatic tames.

Resource requirements for underwater cave exploration include scuba gear, Lazarus Chowder, flippers, and a strong aquatic mount. You will also need weapons like a crossbow or harpoon gun for defense, as well as tools like a metal pick for harvesting. If you are playing in a tribe, coordinate with your teammates to cover different roles, such as scouting, resource gathering, and defense. Solo players should focus on taming a strong mount like the Basilosaurus and bringing extra supplies to handle the cave's challenges.

In specific scenarios, such as the underwater cave on The Island map near the western coast, you will find a large concentration of silica pearls and oil nodes. This cave is relatively easy to navigate but is guarded by eels and jellyfish. Use a Basilosaurus to clear the area and gather resources efficiently. On the other hand, the underwater cave in the southeast corner of The Island is more dangerous, with tight passages and aggressive creatures. In this case, a Tusoteuthis is a better choice for combat and resource gathering.

In conclusion, gathering resources in underwater caves requires careful preparation, the right tames, and effective strategies. By understanding the mechanics, avoiding common mistakes, and using advanced techniques, you can safely and efficiently harvest valuable resources like silica pearls and oil. Whether you are playing solo or in a tribe, always prioritize safety and be ready to adapt to the challenges of the underwater environment.