What are the best spots to farm chitin on the Scorched Earth map in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Farming chitin on the Scorched Earth map in ARK: Survival Evolved can be a challenging but rewarding task, especially since chitin is a crucial resource for crafting items like cementing paste, saddles, and armor. Chitin is primarily obtained by harvesting the remains of certain creatures, such as insects, scorpions, and mantises. On Scorched Earth, the best spots to farm chitin are typically in areas with high concentrations of these creatures. Below is a detailed guide to help you efficiently gather chitin on this map.

First, letÔÇÖs discuss the mechanics of chitin farming. Chitin is obtained by using tools like a hatchet, pickaxe, or a tamed creature with a harvesting ability to gather it from the corpses of specific creatures. On Scorched Earth, the most common sources of chitin are mantises, scorpions, and deathworms. Mantises are particularly valuable because they drop large amounts of chitin when harvested. Scorpions are also a good source, though they drop less chitin compared to mantises. Deathworms, found in the desert dunes, are the most efficient source of chitin but are extremely dangerous and require advanced preparation to defeat.

To begin farming chitin, youÔÇÖll need to prepare adequately. Start by crafting or obtaining a high-quality metal hatchet or pickaxe, as these tools yield more chitin per creature. If you have access to tamed creatures, consider using a Sabertooth, Direwolf, or Megatherium, as these animals are excellent at harvesting chitin. A Megatherium is especially effective because it gains a temporary buff after killing insects, which increases its harvesting efficiency. Additionally, bring plenty of water, food, and armor to protect yourself from the harsh desert environment and hostile creatures.

One of the best spots to farm chitin on Scorched Earth is the Badlands, located in the southeastern part of the map. This area is teeming with mantises and scorpions, making it a prime location for chitin farming. However, the Badlands are also dangerous due to the presence of predators like raptors and carnotaurus, so approach with caution. Another excellent spot is the Dunes, where deathworms spawn. While deathworms are difficult to kill, they drop massive amounts of chitin, making them worth the effort if youÔÇÖre well-prepared.

When farming chitin in the Badlands, start by clearing the area of any threats, such as raptors or carnotaurus. Once the area is safe, focus on killing mantises and scorpions. Use your hatchet or tamed creature to harvest their corpses for chitin. If youÔÇÖre using a Megatherium, take advantage of its insect-killing buff to maximize your chitin yield. Be mindful of your surroundings, as more creatures may spawn while youÔÇÖre harvesting.

For deathworm farming in the Dunes, youÔÇÖll need a strong tamed creature like a Rex, Wyvern, or Rock Elemental. Deathworms are tough opponents, so make sure your creature is well-leveled and equipped with a good saddle. Bring plenty of healing items and be prepared for a long fight. Once you defeat a deathworm, use your hatchet or tamed creature to harvest its corpse for chitin. Deathworms drop significantly more chitin than other creatures, making them a high-risk, high-reward option.

A common mistake to avoid is underestimating the dangers of the Scorched Earth environment. The heat and lack of water can quickly drain your health, so always carry water jars or canteens. Additionally, donÔÇÖt venture into chitin farming areas without proper gear or tamed creatures, as the hostile wildlife can easily overwhelm you. Another mistake is neglecting to clear the area of threats before harvesting. Failing to do so can result in unexpected attacks from predators, putting you and your tamed creatures at risk.

Advanced techniques for chitin farming include using a chainsaw, which is highly efficient at harvesting chitin from corpses. However, chainsaws require gasoline and are expensive to craft, so theyÔÇÖre best used by advanced players. Another optimization is to set up a small outpost near chitin farming areas. This allows you to store resources, heal, and resupply without traveling long distances. If youÔÇÖre playing in a tribe, coordinate with your teammates to cover more ground and protect each other from threats.

In conclusion, farming chitin on Scorched Earth requires careful preparation, the right tools, and a good understanding of the mapÔÇÖs dangers. Focus on areas like the Badlands and Dunes, where mantises, scorpions, and deathworms are abundant. Use high-quality tools or tamed creatures to maximize your chitin yield, and always be prepared for the harsh desert environment and hostile wildlife. By following these strategies, youÔÇÖll be able to gather chitin efficiently and progress in your ARK journey.