Ark Chitin: A Vital Resource for Survival in a Primitive World

Introduction

In the vast and unforgiving wilderness of Ark: Survival Evolved, players must adapt to survive the harsh conditions and formidable creatures that inhabit this prehistoric land. Among the essential resources that players must acquire is chitin, a versatile material that plays a crucial role in crafting, building, and protecting oneself in this primitive world.

What is Chitin?

Chitin is a naturally occurring polysaccharide that forms the exoskeletons of many insects, crustaceans, and other invertebrates. In Ark, chitin is found in abundance on the bodies of various creatures, including trilobites, arthropleura, and meganeura. When harvested from these creatures, chitin can be used to create a wide range of items that enhance a player's survival and progress.

Uses of Chitin

Chitin has numerous uses in Ark, making it an indispensable resource for players. Its primary applications include:

• Crafting: Chitin is used in the crafting of various tools, weapons, and armor. For instance, chitin can be used to create chitin armor, which provides superior protection compared to leather or hide.
• Building: Chitin can be used in the construction of various structures, including foundations, walls, roofs, and doors. Chitin structures are stronger and more durable than wooden or thatch structures, offering increased protection from enemy attacks and environmental hazards.
• Taming: Chitin is required for taming certain creatures in Ark, such as the trilobite and the arthropleura. These creatures possess unique abilities that can aid players in their survival and exploration.

Harvesting Chitin

Harvesting chitin involves killing creatures that possess it, such as trilobites, arthropleura, and meganeura. The amount of chitin obtained from each creature varies depending on its size and species. Players can use various harvesting tools to extract chitin, including:

• Stone Pick: The stone pick is the most basic tool for harvesting chitin, but it yields a relatively small amount per swing.
• Metal Pick: The metal pick is more efficient than the stone pick, yielding a larger amount of chitin per swing.
• Ankylosaurus: The ankylosaurus is a herbivorous dinosaur that specializes in harvesting resources, including chitin. Using an ankylosaurus to harvest chitin can significantly increase the yield compared to using manual tools.

Strategies for Efficient Chitin Harvesting

• Targeting Large Creatures: Trilobites, arthropleura, and meganeura are the primary sources of chitin in Ark. These creatures are relatively large, making them easier to target and harvest.
• Using Effective Harvesting Tools: Utilizing a metal pick or ankylosaurus for harvesting can greatly increase the efficiency of chitin collection. These tools yield a larger amount of chitin per swing, saving time and effort.
• Grouping Up: Forming a group with other players can make harvesting chitin more efficient. While one player distracts the creature, others can focus on harvesting its chitin.
• Farming Trilobites: Trilobites can be particularly abundant in bodies of water. Setting up a farming operation near a trilobite-rich area can provide a steady supply of chitin.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Ignoring Small Creatures: Some smaller creatures in Ark also contain chitin, albeit in smaller quantities. Ignoring these creatures can lead to missing out on a potential source of chitin.
• Using Ineffective Tools: Harvesting chitin using inefficient tools, such as the stone pick, can waste time and effort. Ensure to use a metal pick or ankylosaurus for maximum yield.
• Harvesting at Night: Chitin harvesting is less efficient at night due to reduced visibility. It is advisable to harvest chitin during the day for optimal results.
• Overlooking Rare Creatures: Certain rare creatures in Ark, such as the alpha trilobite and the alpha arthropleura, may drop significant amounts of chitin. Players should be on the lookout for these creatures and attempt to harvest them when possible.

Conclusion

Chitin is a vital resource in Ark: Survival Evolved that plays a crucial role in survival, crafting, building, and taming. By understanding the uses, harvesting methods, and strategies for efficient collection, players can maximize the benefits of this essential resource and increase their chances of survival in this prehistoric paradise.

Tables

Table 1: Chitin Harvesting Rates

Table 2: Chitin Uses

Table 3: Chitin Harvesting Strategies

Table 4: Common Mistakes in Chitin Harvesting