What are the best ways to farm rare mushrooms in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Farming rare mushrooms in ARK: Survival Evolved is an essential task for players looking to craft advanced items like Lesser Antidote, Custom Consumables, or to feed certain tames like the Achatina. Rare mushrooms are primarily found in swamp biomes, caves, and underwater locations, making them a resource that requires careful planning and preparation to gather efficiently. Below is a detailed guide on how to farm rare mushrooms effectively, covering mechanics, strategies, and tips.

Rare mushrooms are typically found in specific environments, such as the swamp biome, where they grow on the ground near trees and water. They can also be harvested from certain cave systems, particularly in the Lower South Cave on The Island, or underwater in the ocean biome. The most efficient way to farm rare mushrooms is by using a tamed creature with high harvesting capabilities, such as a Therizinosaurus, Megaloceros, or a Beelzebufo. These creatures can gather large quantities of rare mushrooms quickly, making them invaluable for this task.

To begin farming rare mushrooms, you will need to prepare adequately. First, ensure you have a strong and well-leveled tamed creature for harvesting. A Therizinosaurus is highly recommended due to its ability to gather rare mushrooms efficiently and its high damage output, which can help defend against hostile creatures in swamp or cave environments. Additionally, bring a good set of armor, weapons, and medical supplies to protect yourself from the dangers of these areas. Swamps are home to aggressive creatures like Sarcosuchus, Kaprosuchus, and Titanoboas, while caves often contain hostile creatures like Arthropluera and Onyc.

Once you are prepared, head to a swamp biome or a cave system known for rare mushroom spawns. On The Island, the swamp biome located in the central and southern regions is a prime location. If you are farming in a cave, the Lower South Cave is a reliable spot. When you arrive, dismount your tamed creature and use its attack command to harvest the mushrooms. For example, a Therizinosaurus can use its primary attack to gather rare mushrooms from the ground or cave walls. Beelzebufos are also excellent for this task, as they can gather rare mushrooms while also providing a small amount of cementing paste as a bonus.

One important tip is to avoid overharvesting in a single area. Rare mushrooms have a respawn timer, so it is best to move around the biome or cave to maximize your yield. Additionally, consider building a small outpost near the farming location to store your gathered resources and provide a safe resting spot. This is especially useful in swamp biomes, where the environment can be hazardous.

A common mistake players make is underestimating the dangers of swamp and cave environments. Always be prepared for combat, and avoid venturing too far without a backup plan. Another mistake is not using the right creature for harvesting. While you can gather rare mushrooms by hand, it is far less efficient and more time-consuming compared to using a tamed creature.

For advanced techniques, consider using a tamed Achatina to passively produce rare mushrooms over time. Achatina snails produce Achatina Paste, which can be converted into rare mushrooms, providing a steady supply without the need for constant farming. Additionally, if you are part of a tribe, coordinate with your teammates to cover more ground and gather resources faster. Solo players should focus on optimizing their tamed creature's harvesting efficiency and ensuring they have a safe route to retreat if needed.

In terms of resource requirements, you will need a strong tamed creature, armor, weapons, and medical supplies. If you plan to build an outpost, gather materials like wood, stone, and thatch in advance. For cave farming, bring grappling hooks or climbing picks to navigate tricky terrain.

In summary, farming rare mushrooms in ARK: Survival Evolved requires careful preparation, the right tamed creature, and an understanding of the environment. By following these strategies and tips, you can efficiently gather rare mushrooms and use them to craft advanced items or feed your tames. Always prioritize safety and resource management to make the most of your farming efforts.