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 Consumable recipes, or to feed certain creatures 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 water or on the roots of trees. They can also be harvested from certain cave systems, particularly in the Lower South Cave on The Island, or underwater in the ocean biomes. The most reliable way to farm them is by using a creature with high harvesting efficiency, 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 creature for harvesting. A Therizinosaurus is highly recommended due to its ability to gather rare mushrooms efficiently and its versatility in combat, which is useful in dangerous areas like swamps or caves. If you do not have a Therizinosaurus, a Beelzebufo is a good alternative, as it can also gather rare mushrooms and has the added benefit of being able to jump long distances, making it easier to navigate swampy terrain.

Once you have your harvesting creature, head to a swamp biome or a cave known for rare mushroom spawns. On The Island, the swamp biome near the Redwood Forest is a popular location. When you arrive, dismount your creature and use its attack command to harvest the mushrooms. Be cautious of hostile creatures in the area, such as Sarcosuchus, Titanoboas, or Kaprosuchus, which can pose a significant threat. Having a strong mount with high health and damage output will help you survive these encounters.

If you are farming in a cave, such as the Lower South Cave, bring a light source like a torch or a shoulder pet that emits light, such as a Glowtail or a Bulbdog. Caves are dark and filled with dangerous creatures like Araneos and Onycs, so having a light source and a strong mount is crucial. Additionally, caves often have narrow passages, so using a smaller creature like a Beelzebufo or a Megaloceros can make navigation easier.

One common mistake players make is not bringing enough supplies for extended farming trips. Always carry extra food, water, and medical supplies, especially when venturing into swamps or caves. Swamps can drain your stamina quickly due to the dense vegetation and water, so having a mount with high stamina is beneficial. Additionally, caves can be cold or hot depending on the location, so bring appropriate armor or consumables to regulate your temperature.

For advanced players, optimizing your farming route can save time and increase efficiency. Use a flying mount like an Argentavis or a Pteranodon to scout the area and identify clusters of rare mushrooms before committing to a ground-based harvest. This allows you to plan your route and avoid unnecessary detours. Additionally, consider setting up a small outpost near the farming location with storage containers and a bed for respawning if needed. This reduces the time spent traveling back and forth to your main base.

Tribe considerations are also important when farming rare mushrooms. If you are part of a tribe, coordinate with your teammates to divide tasks. One player can focus on harvesting while others provide protection or gather additional resources. Solo players should prioritize safety and efficiency, ensuring they have a strong mount and adequate supplies before venturing into dangerous areas.

In summary, farming rare mushrooms in ARK: Survival Evolved requires careful preparation, the right creature for harvesting, and a solid strategy for navigating dangerous environments. By using creatures like the Therizinosaurus or Beelzebufo, scouting the area beforehand, and bringing sufficient supplies, you can maximize your efficiency and minimize risks. Whether you are playing solo or as part of a tribe, these tips will help you gather rare mushrooms effectively and progress in the game.