Taming a Spinosaurus in ARK: Survival Evolved presents a unique challenge that separates experienced survivors from those who simply dream of ruling the seas. This massive carnivore combines the brute force of a Rex with the aquatic prowess of a giant, making it one of the most coveted creatures on the island. Successfully domesticating this apex predator requires meticulous planning, specific resources, and an understanding of its volatile temperament.
Locating the Spinosaurus
Before you can even consider the steps for taming, you need to know where to find this elusive beast. The Spinosaurus primarily inhabits the humid, swampy regions of the map, particularly the expansive Marsh biome. It is a creature of the water, so expect to find it patrolling the deep channels and murky shallows where other dinosaurs fear to tread.
Essential Taming Strategy
Unlike many other carnivores, the Spinosaurus cannot be knocked out using standard tranquilizer arrows or bullets without significant difficulty. The recommended and most efficient method is to utilize a fish trap. This passive taming strategy is crucial because it avoids the risk of the Spinosaurus dying from fall damage or aggression during the knockout phase, which is a common pitfall for unprepared players.
The Fish Trap Method
To employ this strategy, you must first construct a large fish trap near the water's edge where the Spinosaurus is likely to wander. Once the trap is built, you need to feed it a constant supply of raw fish or prime fish. The creature will enter the trap to eat, becoming trapped inside where it can be safely fed without retaliation. This method ensures a steady increase in taming effectiveness without the stress of combat.
Diet and Necessities
While the fish trap is active, you must ensure a steady supply of the correct nourishment. Raw Meat is the standard fare for most tames, but the Spinosaurus has a specific preference that accelerates the taming process significantly. Prioritizing Raw Prime Meat will drastically reduce the time required to complete the taming sequence, making it the resource of choice for any serious breeder.
Combat and Utility
Once the taming process is complete, the Spinosaurus reveals its true value as a mount. It excels in environments where other mounts fail, providing unmatched mobility in deep water and surprising speed on land. Its utility extends beyond transportation; it is a formidable combatant capable of hunting the most dangerous sea creatures, including the elusive Coelacanth and the terrifying Megalodon.
Riding Considerations
When mounted, the Spinosaurus offers a stable platform for combat, but there is a critical detail regarding its saddle. Survivors must unlock the required engram to craft the saddle, ensuring they have progressed sufficiently in the tech tree. The saddle provides significant defensive bonuses, making the Spinosaurus a durable tank for traversing the treacherous landscapes of ARK.
