How do I locate and farm black pearls in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Black pearls are one of the most valuable resources in ARK: Survival Evolved, used for crafting advanced items like Tek-tier equipment and saddles. They are rare and can be challenging to farm, but with the right strategies, you can gather them efficiently. HereÔÇÖs a detailed guide on how to locate and farm black pearls in the game.

Black pearls are primarily obtained from certain creatures and specific locations across the maps. The most common sources are Eurypterids (sea scorpions), Ammonites, and Tusoteuthis (giant squids). Eurypterids are found in the ocean and can drop black pearls when killed, but they are dangerous and can inflict torpor, so be cautious. Ammonites, which are passive creatures, also drop black pearls when harvested, and they are often found in shallow waters. Tusoteuthis, on the other hand, are deep-sea predators that drop a significant amount of black pearls when killed, but they are extremely dangerous and require strong tames or weapons to defeat.

To farm black pearls effectively, you need to prepare properly. First, ensure you have a strong water mount, such as a Basilosaurus, Megalodon, or Mosasaurus. These creatures will help you navigate the ocean safely and deal with hostile creatures. A Basilosaurus is particularly useful because it has high health and immunity to the torpor effects of Eurypterids. Additionally, bring a good set of scuba gear or Lazarus Chowder to extend your underwater breathing time. If youÔÇÖre venturing into deep waters, consider bringing a Cryopod to store your mount if you need to escape quickly.

When farming black pearls, start by locating Eurypterids in the ocean. They are often found near underwater caves or in deeper parts of the ocean. Use your water mount to kill them and harvest their bodies for black pearls. Be careful, as Eurypterids can swarm you and inflict torpor, which can leave you vulnerable to other predators. If youÔÇÖre farming Ammonites, look for them in shallow waters near the coast. They are passive and wonÔÇÖt attack, so you can harvest them safely with a pickaxe or a tamed creature with high melee damage.

For more advanced players, hunting Tusoteuthis is the most efficient way to farm black pearls. These creatures are found in the deep ocean and can drop hundreds of black pearls when killed. However, they are extremely dangerous and require a strong water mount or a group of players to take down. Use a high-level Basilosaurus or a pack of Megalodons to attack the Tusoteuthis. Aim for its tentacles to deal damage, and be prepared for a long fight. Once defeated, harvest its body with a chainsaw or a high-damage creature to maximize the black pearl yield.

One common mistake when farming black pearls is underestimating the dangers of the ocean. Always be prepared for unexpected attacks from other predators like Megalodons or Plesiosaurs. Another mistake is not bringing enough resources, such as oxygen tanks or healing items, which can leave you stranded or vulnerable. Additionally, avoid farming black pearls without a strong water mount, as youÔÇÖll be at a significant disadvantage against the creatures that drop them.

Advanced techniques for farming black pearls include using a tamed Otter to increase the yield of black pearls when harvesting. Otters have a passive ability that increases the amount of resources gathered from certain creatures, including Eurypterids and Ammonites. Another optimization is to use a Tek Suit to explore the ocean quickly and safely, as it provides enhanced mobility and protection. If youÔÇÖre playing in a tribe, coordinate with your teammates to cover more ground and protect each other from threats. Solo players should focus on using strong tames and avoiding unnecessary risks.

In terms of resource requirements, youÔÇÖll need a good water mount, scuba gear or Lazarus Chowder, and weapons or tools for harvesting. If youÔÇÖre hunting Tusoteuthis, consider bringing a group of players or multiple tames to increase your chances of success. Always carry extra food, water, and healing items to sustain yourself during long farming sessions.

Specific examples of black pearl farming locations include the underwater caves on The Island map, where Eurypterids are abundant. On the Ragnarok map, the deep ocean trenches near the Viking Bay area are good spots for finding Tusoteuthis. On the Valguero map, the Aberration Trench is a prime location for farming black pearls, as it contains both Eurypterids and Ammonites.

In conclusion, farming black pearls in ARK: Survival Evolved requires careful preparation, strong tames, and a good understanding of the oceanÔÇÖs dangers. By following these strategies and tips, you can efficiently gather black pearls and use them to craft advanced Tek-tier items. Whether youÔÇÖre playing solo or in a tribe, always prioritize safety and resource management to maximize your farming efficiency.