Where are the best locations to farm silica pearls and black pearls in the Ocean Biome on The Island in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Silica pearls and black pearls are valuable resources in ARK: Survival Evolved, especially for crafting advanced items like electronics, scuba gear, and tek-tier equipment. On The Island map, these resources are primarily found in the Ocean Biome, but they require careful planning and preparation to farm efficiently. Below is a detailed guide on how to locate and gather these resources effectively.

Silica pearls are commonly found in shallow underwater areas, often near the ocean floor or in clusters of clams. Black pearls, on the other hand, are rarer and typically dropped by certain creatures like trilobites, eurypterids, or alpha mosasaurs. Both resources are essential for mid-to-late-game progression, so knowing where to find them is crucial.

To begin farming silica pearls, head to the western and northern coastal areas of The Island. Key locations include the underwater caves near Herbivore Island, the shallow waters around the Snow Biome, and the rivers leading into the ocean. Silica pearls are often found in clusters of clams, which glow slightly, making them easier to spot. Using a tamed aquatic creature like an Ichthyosaurus or a Megalodon can help you gather these pearls quickly. For black pearls, the best locations are deeper underwater, particularly around the underwater caves and trenches. Eurypterids, which resemble giant sea scorpions, are a reliable source of black pearls. They are often found in the deeper parts of the ocean, especially near the underwater caves.

Preparation is key when farming these resources. First, ensure you have a strong aquatic mount, such as a Basilosaurus or a Tusoteuthis, as these creatures can handle the dangers of the ocean biome. A Basilosaurus is particularly useful because it is immune to the stun effects of jellyfish and eels, which are common threats in the ocean. Additionally, bring scuba gear or a Lazarus Chowder to extend your underwater breathing time. If you are farming black pearls, consider bringing a high-damage mount like a Mosasaur or a Tuso to deal with eurypterids and other aggressive creatures.

When farming silica pearls, approach the clams carefully and harvest them by hand or with a pickaxe. Be cautious of nearby predators like Megalodons or Plesiosaurs, which can attack you or your mount. For black pearls, focus on killing eurypterids, as they drop a significant amount of black pearls. However, eurypterids are dangerous and can deal high damage, so avoid engaging them without a strong mount or proper preparation.

One common mistake is underestimating the dangers of the ocean biome. The ocean is home to many aggressive creatures, including jellyfish, eels, and alpha predators. Always keep an eye on your surroundings and avoid overextending your farming runs. Another mistake is not bringing enough oxygen or food for your mount, which can lead to drowning or starvation. Always carry extra supplies and plan your route carefully.

Advanced techniques include using a tamed Anglerfish, which increases the yield of silica pearls when harvesting clams. Additionally, setting up an underwater base or taming a Tusoteuthis can make farming black pearls more efficient, as the Tusoteuthis can grab and kill eurypterids quickly. For tribes, coordinating with multiple players to cover more ground and protect each other from threats can significantly improve farming efficiency. Solo players should focus on using strong mounts and avoiding unnecessary risks.

In summary, farming silica pearls and black pearls in the Ocean Biome on The Island requires careful preparation, strong mounts, and awareness of the dangers. Focus on key locations like underwater caves and shallow coastal areas, and always be ready to defend yourself from aggressive creatures. With the right strategy and preparation, you can gather these valuable resources efficiently and progress further in the game.