How do I find and farm rare mushrooms on Valguero in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Finding and farming rare mushrooms on Valguero in ARK: Survival Evolved requires a good understanding of the map's unique biomes and the mechanics of resource gathering. Rare mushrooms are a valuable resource used in crafting recipes, taming certain creatures, and creating advanced items. On Valguero, they are primarily found in specific areas, and farming them efficiently involves preparation, strategy, and the right tools or creatures.

To begin, rare mushrooms are most commonly found in the Aberration Trench, a unique biome on Valguero that mimics the environment of the Aberration DLC. This trench is located in the southwestern part of the map, near the coordinates 30, 60. The area is filled with glowing plants, mushrooms, and dangerous creatures like Nameless and Rock Drakes, so preparation is key. You will need a strong mount, such as a high-level Carnotaurus, Sabertooth, or even a Rock Drake if you have one, to navigate the area safely. Additionally, bring weapons like a crossbow or shotgun to deal with hostile creatures.

The mechanics of gathering rare mushrooms involve harvesting them from the glowing mushroom patches found throughout the Aberration Trench. These patches are large, glowing clusters that can be harvested by hand or with a tool like a pickaxe. However, using a creature with high melee damage, such as a Therizinosaurus, is the most efficient method. The Therizinosaurus has a special ability to gather rare resources like mushrooms, wood, and fiber at a much higher rate than players can manually. If you do not have a Therizinosaurus, a Megaloceros (deer) or a Beelzebufo (frog) can also be effective for gathering mushrooms, though they are less efficient.

Before heading to the Aberration Trench, ensure you are well-prepared. Bring plenty of food, water, and medical supplies, as the area is dangerous and can drain your health quickly. Equip armor with high durability and resistance, such as flak or riot gear, to protect against the Nameless and other threats. If you are playing solo, consider bringing a pack of tamed creatures for added protection. For tribes, coordinate with your teammates to cover more ground and defend against hostile creatures.

When farming rare mushrooms, focus on the glowing patches scattered throughout the trench. These patches are often found near the walls or in clusters on the ground. Use your Therizinosaurus or other gathering creature to harvest them quickly. Be mindful of your surroundings, as the Nameless can spawn if you are in the area for too long without light. To prevent this, carry a light pet like a Bulbdog or Shinehorn, or use glow sticks and torches to keep the Nameless at bay.

A common mistake is venturing into the Aberration Trench without proper preparation. The area is filled with high-level threats, and without a strong mount or adequate supplies, you risk losing your items and creatures. Another mistake is overharvesting in one area, which can deplete the mushroom patches and force you to move further into the trench, increasing the risk of encountering dangerous creatures. To avoid this, rotate between different sections of the trench and give the patches time to respawn.

For advanced techniques, consider setting up a small outpost near the Aberration Trench. This can serve as a safe zone where you can store resources, heal, and regroup. Use a flying mount like an Argentavis or Wyvern to transport resources back to your main base quickly. If you are playing in a tribe, assign roles to each member, such as gathering, defense, and transportation, to maximize efficiency.

In terms of resource requirements, you will need a strong mount, weapons, armor, and gathering tools. If you are using a Therizinosaurus, ensure it has high melee damage and weight capacity to carry the mushrooms. For solo players, focus on mobility and defense, as you will need to handle threats on your own. Tribes can distribute tasks, such as one player gathering while others defend or transport resources.

Specific scenarios include farming rare mushrooms for taming a Rock Drake or crafting advanced items like Lesser Antidote or Mushroom Brew. In these cases, prioritize efficiency and safety, as the resources are crucial for progression. For example, when taming a Rock Drake, you will need a large amount of rare mushrooms, so plan multiple trips to the Aberration Trench and store the mushrooms in preserving bins or fridges to prevent spoilage.

In conclusion, farming rare mushrooms on Valguero requires careful preparation, the right tools and creatures, and a solid strategy. By focusing on the Aberration Trench, using efficient gathering methods, and staying vigilant against threats, you can collect rare mushrooms effectively. Whether playing solo or in a tribe, coordination and resource management are key to success. Avoid common mistakes like inadequate preparation and overharvesting, and consider advanced techniques like setting up an outpost or assigning roles within your tribe. With these tips, you can master the art of farming rare mushrooms and use them to progress in ARK: Survival Evolved.