How to Get Black Pearls on ARK: A Survivor’s Guide

So, you’re after Black Pearls in ARK: Survival Evolved, eh? Smart choice. These little beauties are crucial for crafting some of the game’s most powerful tech, like the Tek Replicator, Tek Transmitter, and even certain high-end ammunition. Forget grinding for days for polymer – Black Pearls are your express ticket to the endgame. The most straightforward way to get Black Pearls is by harvesting them from specific creatures and locations, most notably from Eurypterids, Trilobites, and Deathworms within the game’s more dangerous environments. Let’s dive into how to maximize your Black Pearl haul.

Hunting Grounds: Where to Find Black Pearls

Securing Black Pearls isn’t exactly a walk in the park. You’ll need to brave the depths and the dunes, but the rewards are well worth the risk. Here’s a breakdown of the prime hunting spots:

Deep Sea Diving: The Underwater Labyrinth

The ocean is your primary source for Black Pearls. Specifically, look for these creatures:

• Eurypterids: These scorpion-like creatures are a common source, but they can be found in large groups, often guarded by other predators. They inhabit the deeper parts of the ocean and are particularly abundant in caves.
• Trilobites: While they yield fewer Pearls than Eurypterids, Trilobites are far easier to kill and can be found closer to the surface, making them a good starting point. Look for them on the ocean floor, especially near rocks and coral.
• Alpha Mosasaurus/Tusoteuthis: While not a direct source, these Alpha predators often have Black Pearls in their inventories. Killing them is challenging, but the loot is significant. Be warned: these are end-game challenges, and you’ll need a well-equipped team and powerful tames.

Scorched Earth’s Sandy Grave: Taming the Dunes

On the scorched earth map, you’ll find:

• Deathworms: These monstrous worms lurk beneath the sands, erupting to ambush unsuspecting survivors. Killing them is a tough fight, but they drop a substantial amount of Black Pearls upon death. Bring strong tames like Rock Elementals or Wyverns, and be prepared for a chaotic battle.

Aberration’s Hidden Grottos: Navigating the Bio-luminescent Depths

Aberration offers a slightly different approach:

• Nameless: These creatures are found in the Element-infused areas of Aberration. Killing them can yield Black Pearls, but the drop rate is lower compared to underwater methods, and the threat level is significantly higher due to the constant radiation and other Nameless.

Maximizing Your Harvest: Tools, Tames, and Tactics

Simply finding Black Pearls isn’t enough. You’ll want to optimize your gathering to make the most of your time. Here’s how:

Tame Selection: Your Aquatic Allies

Choosing the right tame can drastically improve your harvesting efficiency. Some excellent options include:

• Tusoteuthis: The Tuso is arguably the best all-around underwater tame for Black Pearl hunting. Its powerful tentacles can easily dispatch Eurypterids and Trilobites, and it can tank damage from larger threats.
• Basilosaurus: Immune to Cnidaria stings and Electrophorus shocks, the Basilo is a safe and reliable mount for exploring the depths. It may not be as powerful as the Tuso, but its survivability is unmatched.
• Megalodon: A classic choice, Megalodons are fast and deal decent damage. They can be used to quickly clear out groups of Eurypterids, but they are vulnerable to stuns.
• Baryonyx: This nimble creature can stun enemies, making it effective against Eurypterids and other threats. Its speed and maneuverability also make it ideal for navigating tight underwater caves.

Tool Time: Optimizing Your Gathering

While tames are crucial, tools can also play a role:

• Metal Pick: For harvesting Trilobites, a metal pick is more efficient than your hands.
• Chainsaw: (Though mostly useless underwater) on Scorched Earth, Chainsaw’s can boost Black Pearl harvest from Deathworms

Location, Location, Location: Finding the Hotspots

Certain locations are known to have higher concentrations of Black Pearls and the creatures that drop them. Do some research and scout out these hotspots to maximize your yield. Common knowledge usually points towards deep ocean caves and the Dunes of Scorched Earth.

Safety First: Preparing for the Perils

The environments where you find Black Pearls are often dangerous. Always be prepared for:

• Aggressive Creatures: The ocean is home to many predators, including sharks, eels, and Plesiosaurs.
• Hypothermia: Deep water can quickly lower your body temperature. Wear appropriate armor and consume warming beverages.
• Oxygen Depletion: Bring plenty of oxygen tanks or use a Lazarus Chowder to extend your underwater breathing time.
• Radiation: Certain areas, like the Element-infused regions of Aberration, are highly radioactive. Wear a Hazmat Suit or use Rock Drake feathers to mitigate the effects.

FAQs: Your Black Pearl Questions Answered

Here are some frequently asked questions about Black Pearls in ARK: Survival Evolved:

1. What is the fastest way to get Black Pearls on ARK?

Utilizing a high-level Tusoteuthis in a deep-sea cave filled with Eurypterids is the fastest method. Equip your Tuso with decent armor and damage stats, clear the cave of any other threats, and then go to town on the Eurypterids.

2. Do Black Pearls respawn?

Yes, Black Pearls respawn along with the creatures that drop them. The respawn time varies depending on the server settings. Keep the area loaded to make sure the creatures are always present.

3. Can I farm Black Pearls?

While you can’t “farm” them in the traditional sense (like planting crops), you can establish a base near a Black Pearl hotspot and regularly clear the area of creatures. This effectively creates a farming loop.

4. What is the best tame for harvesting Trilobites?

For Trilobites, a low-level Ichthyosaurus or a fast swimmer combined with a Metal Pick works wonders. They are easy to kill and can be found close to the surface.

5. Are Black Pearls weightless in a specific creature’s inventory?

No, Black Pearls have weight like any other resource. Certain creatures may have weight reduction for certain resources, but it is best to check for those on the Ark Wiki.

6. Do server settings affect Black Pearl drop rates?

Yes, server settings that affect loot quality and resource gathering rates can influence the number of Black Pearls you obtain. Adjust these settings accordingly for a customized experience.

7. Can I find Black Pearls in supply drops?

While extremely rare, Black Pearls can occasionally be found in deep-sea loot crates and certain high-tier supply drops, but relying on this method is not efficient.

8. Are there any Black Pearl “glitches” or exploits?

Exploiting glitches is discouraged and can result in penalties. Stick to legitimate methods for obtaining Black Pearls.

9. Do Black Pearls spoil?

No, Black Pearls do not spoil. They can be stored indefinitely.

10. What are Black Pearls used for besides Tek structures?

Black Pearls are also used to craft certain advanced weapons, ammunition, and other valuable items.

11. Are there any maps where Black Pearls are easier to obtain?

Crystal Isles is known to have many shallow caves that are easily accessible for early-to-mid game tribes who need pearls.

12. What is the best strategy for dealing with Deathworms on Scorched Earth?

The best strategy involves using a Rock Elemental or a Wyvern with high health and armor. Kite the Deathworm into a trap or use the terrain to your advantage. Watch out for the extreme temperatures of the map as well.

With this knowledge, you should be well-equipped to embark on your Black Pearl hunting adventures. Remember to prioritize safety, choose the right tools and tames, and scout out those hotspots. Happy hunting, survivor!