What are the best strategies for farming chitin and keratin on Ragnarok in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Farming chitin and keratin on Ragnarok in ARK: Survival Evolved is essential for crafting items like cementing paste, armor, and saddles. Both resources are primarily obtained from killing certain creatures, such as trilobites, scorpions, spiders, and mantises. Ragnarok, being a large and diverse map, offers several excellent locations and strategies for efficient farming. HereÔÇÖs a detailed guide to help you maximize your chitin and keratin collection.

First, understand the mechanics. Chitin and keratin are dropped by specific creatures when killed. Trilobites, found near water, are a passive source of chitin and keratin, as they do not fight back. Scorpions, spiders, and mantises, however, are aggressive and require careful handling. Chitin is more commonly dropped by insects and arthropods, while keratin is often obtained from creatures like sabertooths, wolves, and rhinos. On Ragnarok, the best areas for farming these resources are the desert biome, the jungle caves, and the highlands.

To begin farming, youÔÇÖll need a strong combat mount or a tool like a metal hatchet or chainsaw. A sabertooth or wolf is ideal for chitin farming due to their high damage and mobility. For keratin, a strong carnivore like a Rex or Spino can efficiently take down larger creatures. If youÔÇÖre early in the game, a pike or sword can work, but itÔÇÖs slower and riskier. Always bring a backup weapon and healing items, as some creatures can deal significant damage.

One of the best strategies is to head to the desert biome, specifically around the canyons and dunes. Here, youÔÇÖll find scorpions and mantises in large numbers. Use your mount to kill them quickly, and gather the resources with a metal hatchet or chainsaw for maximum yield. Be cautious of other predators like raptors or carnos that may attack you while farming. Another great spot is the jungle cave near the green obelisk. This cave is filled with spiders and scorpions, making it a chitin hotspot. However, itÔÇÖs dangerous, so bring a strong mount and be prepared for combat.

For keratin, the highlands are a prime location. Sabertooths, wolves, and rhinos roam here, and they drop keratin when killed. A pack of wolves or a strong carnivore can make quick work of these creatures. Be mindful of the aggressive creatures in the area, such as allos or gigas, which can pose a serious threat.

Preparation is key. Before heading out, ensure your mount is well-leveled in health and damage. Bring plenty of food and healing items for both you and your mount. If youÔÇÖre farming in caves, consider bringing a light source like a torch or helmet attachment, as some areas are dark. Additionally, having a flyer like an argy or pteranodon can help you transport resources back to your base quickly.

Common mistakes include underestimating the dangers of certain areas, especially caves and the desert. Always scout the area first and be ready to retreat if overwhelmed. Another mistake is not bringing the right tools. A metal hatchet or chainsaw significantly increases resource yield compared to primitive tools. Finally, avoid overextending. If your mountÔÇÖs health is low, return to base to heal rather than risking a loss.

Advanced techniques include using a chainsaw, which has the highest yield for chitin and keratin. If you have access to one, itÔÇÖs worth bringing along. Another optimization is to use a pack of wolves or sabertooths, as their pack bonus increases damage output, making farming faster. For tribes, coordinating with multiple players can speed up the process. One player can focus on killing while another gathers resources, or you can split up to cover more ground.

In solo play, efficiency is crucial. Stick to safer areas like the desert or highlands and avoid caves unless youÔÇÖre well-prepared. Use a flyer to transport resources quickly and minimize downtime. For tribes, consider setting up a small outpost near farming locations to store resources and heal mounts.

Specific examples include the desert canyon near the red obelisk, where scorpions and mantises are abundant. Another is the jungle cave near the green obelisk, which is rich in chitin but requires careful navigation. The highlands near the castle ruins are excellent for keratin farming, with sabertooths and wolves roaming the area.

In summary, farming chitin and keratin on Ragnarok requires preparation, the right tools, and knowledge of the best locations. Use strong mounts, bring the appropriate tools, and be cautious of the dangers in each area. With these strategies, you can efficiently gather the resources needed for crafting and progression in ARK: Survival Evolved.