What are the best spots to farm black pearls in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Black pearls are one of the most valuable resources in ARK: Survival Evolved, used for crafting high-tier items like Tek gear and saddles. Farming black pearls efficiently requires knowledge of the best locations, the right tools, and proper preparation. HereÔÇÖs a detailed guide to help you farm black pearls effectively.

Black pearls are primarily obtained from certain creatures, such as Trilobites, Eurypterids, Ammonites, and Tusoteuthis. However, the most efficient sources are Eurypterids and Tusoteuthis. Eurypterids are found in underwater caves and deep ocean areas, while Tusoteuthis are rare deep-sea predators. Black pearls can also be harvested from dead Alpha Mosasaurs and Alpha Tusoteuthis, but these are harder to find and defeat.

To start farming black pearls, youÔÇÖll need a strong water mount, such as a Basilosaurus, Mosasaurus, or Megalodon. Basilosaurus is highly recommended because it has high health, good damage, and immunity to the stun effects of Eurypterids and Cnidaria. YouÔÇÖll also need scuba gear or a Lazarus Chowder to extend your underwater breathing time. A good crossbow or harpoon gun with grappling hooks can help you navigate underwater caves or escape dangerous situations.

One of the best spots to farm black pearls is the underwater caves on The Island map. These caves are located in the ocean biome and are filled with Eurypterids. The cave at coordinates 68.7, 56.1 is particularly rich in Eurypterids. Enter the cave with your water mount and start killing Eurypterids. Each Eurypterid drops between 5 to 20 black pearls, depending on your harvesting method. Using a tamed Megalodon or Basilosaurus with high melee damage will yield more black pearls.

Another excellent location is the deep ocean trenches, especially around the edges of the map. Here, you can find Tusoteuthis, which drop a significant amount of black pearls when killed. Tusoteuthis are dangerous, so make sure your mount is strong enough to handle them. A high-level Mosasaurus or a well-bred Megalodon with a good saddle is ideal for this task. Tusoteuthis also drop black pearls when harvested with a chainsaw, which can yield even more resources.

On the Ragnarok map, the best spot for black pearls is the underwater trench near the Viking Bay area. This trench is filled with Eurypterids and is relatively easy to access. On the Valguero map, the Aberration Trench is another great location, as it contains both Eurypterids and Trilobites. The Crystal Isles map also has underwater caves and deep ocean areas rich in black pearl sources.

When farming black pearls, always bring a Cryopod or two in case your mount gets stuck or you need to escape quickly. ItÔÇÖs also a good idea to bring a few extra scuba tanks or Lazarus Chowder to extend your underwater time. If youÔÇÖre playing solo, consider setting up a small underwater base or a taming pen near the farming location to store your loot and restock supplies.

One common mistake is underestimating the dangers of underwater farming. Eurypterids can deal significant damage and have a stun effect, while Tusoteuthis can grab and immobilize your mount. Always keep an eye on your mountÔÇÖs health and be ready to retreat if necessary. Another mistake is not using the right harvesting tools. A chainsaw or a high-melee damage mount will yield more black pearls than using your hands or a low-damage weapon.

For advanced players, consider breeding high-level water mounts with mutations to increase their damage and health. This will make farming black pearls faster and safer. You can also use a Tek Suit to explore underwater areas more efficiently, as it provides oxygen and mobility. If youÔÇÖre in a tribe, coordinate with your teammates to cover more ground and protect each other from threats.

In summary, farming black pearls in ARK: Survival Evolved requires preparation, the right tools, and knowledge of the best locations. Focus on underwater caves and deep ocean areas, use a strong water mount, and bring the necessary gear to extend your underwater time. Avoid common mistakes like underestimating dangers and using inefficient harvesting methods. With the right strategy, you can gather black pearls efficiently and use them to craft powerful Tek gear and items.