What are the best locations to farm fiber in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Farming fiber in ARK: Survival Evolved is one of the most essential tasks for survival and progression, as fiber is used in crafting a wide variety of items, including clothing, tools, and structures. Fiber is primarily gathered by harvesting plants, and the efficiency of this process can vary depending on your location, tools, and tamed creatures. Below is a detailed guide on how to farm fiber effectively, covering mechanics, strategies, and tips.

To begin, fiber is most commonly obtained by harvesting bushes and small plants scattered across the map. The simplest way to gather fiber is by hand, but this method is slow and inefficient. Using tools like the Metal Sickle significantly increases the amount of fiber you can collect. The Metal Sickle is unlocked at level 30 and requires 12 metal ingots, 8 wood, and 20 fiber to craft. It is highly recommended to use this tool as soon as possible, as it can yield large amounts of fiber in a short time.

One of the best locations to farm fiber is in areas with dense vegetation, such as forests or jungles. On The Island map, the southern jungles and the areas around the Redwood Forest are excellent spots for fiber farming. These regions are filled with bushes and small plants that can be harvested repeatedly. Another great location is the swamp biome, but be cautious of the dangerous creatures that inhabit this area, such as Sarcosuchus and Titanoboas. If you are playing on other maps like Scorched Earth or Aberration, look for areas with abundant plant life, such as oases or fertile regions.

For players who have tamed creatures, certain dinosaurs can make fiber farming much easier. The Therizinosaurus is one of the best creatures for gathering fiber, as it has a high harvesting efficiency for plants. Other good options include the Gigantopithecus (Bigfoot) and the Moschops, which can also gather fiber effectively. Using these creatures not only speeds up the process but also allows you to carry more fiber due to their higher weight capacity.

When farming fiber, it is important to manage your inventory and weight. Fiber stacks up to 100 in your inventory, so make sure to deposit it in a storage container or your base frequently to avoid becoming overencumbered. If you are playing in a tribe, consider assigning one member to focus on resource gathering while others handle base defense or other tasks. This division of labor can greatly improve efficiency.

A common mistake players make is neglecting to bring the right tools or creatures for fiber farming. Always ensure you have a Metal Sickle or a tamed creature capable of harvesting fiber before heading out. Another mistake is venturing into dangerous areas unprepared. Always carry weapons, armor, and healing items to protect yourself from hostile creatures.

Advanced techniques for fiber farming include setting up a base near a resource-rich area. For example, building a small outpost near the Redwood Forest can provide easy access to fiber and other resources like wood and thatch. Additionally, using a flying mount like an Argentavis or Pteranodon can help you quickly travel between farming spots and your base, saving time and effort.

Preparation is key when farming fiber. Make sure you have enough food, water, and tools before heading out. If you are using a tamed creature, ensure it is well-fed and has enough stamina for the task. For solo players, it is especially important to plan your farming trips carefully to avoid unnecessary risks.

In summary, fiber farming in ARK: Survival Evolved is a straightforward but essential task. Using the right tools, tamed creatures, and locations can greatly improve your efficiency. Always be prepared for dangers, manage your inventory wisely, and consider setting up outposts near resource-rich areas. By following these strategies, you can ensure a steady supply of fiber for all your crafting needs.