
When it comes to the enigmatic Therizinosaurus, one of the most peculiar dinosaurs to have ever roamed the Earth, the question of what to feed it in the context of the popular game “Ark: Survival Evolved” becomes a fascinating topic of discussion. This article delves into the dietary preferences of the Therizinosaurus, exploring both in-game mechanics and real-world paleontological theories, while also touching on some whimsical and imaginative ideas that could add a layer of fun to your gameplay.
Understanding the Therizinosaurus
Before we dive into the specifics of what to feed a Therizinosaurus in “Ark,” it’s essential to understand a bit about this unique creature. The Therizinosaurus, often referred to as the “scythe lizard,” was a theropod dinosaur that lived during the Late Cretaceous period. It is known for its distinctive long claws, which could reach up to a meter in length. Despite its fearsome appearance, the Therizinosaurus is believed to have been primarily herbivorous, although some theories suggest it may have been omnivorous, occasionally supplementing its diet with small animals or insects.
In-Game Diet: What Does the Therizinosaurus Eat in “Ark”?
In “Ark: Survival Evolved,” the Therizinosaurus is classified as a herbivore, meaning it primarily consumes plant-based foods. However, its diet is more nuanced than that of other herbivores in the game. Here’s a breakdown of what you can feed your Therizinosaurus:
1. Berries
- Types: Amarberry, Azulberry, Mejoberry, Narcoberry, Stimberry, Tintoberry
- Usage: Berries are the most basic food source for the Therizinosaurus. They are easy to gather and can be used to tame the creature initially. However, berries alone are not sufficient for maintaining a high level of health and stamina, especially as the Therizinosaurus grows.
2. Vegetables
- Types: Longrass, Savoroot, Rockarrot, Citronal
- Usage: Vegetables are a more efficient food source compared to berries. They provide better nutrition and are essential for keeping your Therizinosaurus in top condition. Vegetables can also be used in crafting recipes to create more advanced foods that offer additional benefits.
3. Advanced Crops
- Types: Rare Flower, Rare Mushroom
- Usage: Advanced crops are not typically used as a primary food source but can be beneficial in specific situations. For example, Rare Flowers can be used to tame certain creatures or to craft special recipes that provide temporary buffs.
4. Kibble
- Types: Therizinosaurus Kibble (made from Therizino Eggs, Longrass, Savoroot, Fiber, and Water)
- Usage: Kibble is the most efficient food for taming and maintaining a Therizinosaurus. It provides the highest nutritional value and is preferred for taming high-level Therizinosaurus. Crafting kibble requires a bit of effort, but the benefits are well worth it.
5. Crafted Foods
- Types: Custom Consumables (e.g., Sweet Vegetable Cake)
- Usage: Crafted foods can offer unique benefits, such as increased health regeneration or stamina recovery. These foods are typically more complex to prepare but can be a valuable addition to your Therizinosaurus’s diet.
Real-World Paleontological Insights
While “Ark: Survival Evolved” provides a simplified version of the Therizinosaurus’s diet, real-world paleontology offers a more complex picture. The Therizinosaurus’s long claws and beak-like mouth suggest that it may have been adapted for a specific type of feeding behavior. Some theories propose that it used its claws to strip leaves from branches or to dig for roots and tubers. Others suggest that it may have used its claws to defend itself or to catch small prey.
1. Herbivorous Diet
- Evidence: The Therizinosaurus’s beak and teeth are more suited for grinding plant material rather than tearing flesh. This supports the theory that it was primarily herbivorous.
- Implications: If the Therizinosaurus was indeed herbivorous, its diet would have consisted of a variety of plants, including leaves, fruits, and possibly even seeds. In “Ark,” this translates to a diet rich in berries and vegetables.
2. Omnivorous Diet
- Evidence: Some paleontologists argue that the Therizinosaurus may have been omnivorous, supplementing its plant-based diet with small animals or insects. This theory is supported by the presence of claws that could have been used for hunting or scavenging.
- Implications: If the Therizinosaurus was omnivorous, its diet in “Ark” could potentially include meat-based foods. However, the game currently classifies it as a herbivore, so this remains a speculative idea.
Creative and Imaginative Feeding Ideas
While “Ark: Survival Evolved” provides a structured approach to feeding your Therizinosaurus, there’s always room for creativity. Here are some imaginative ideas that could add a layer of fun to your gameplay:
1. Seasonal Diets
- Concept: Just as animals in the real world have seasonal diets, you could create a seasonal feeding schedule for your Therizinosaurus. For example, during the summer months, you could focus on feeding it more berries and fruits, while in the winter, you could shift to more root vegetables.
- Implementation: Use the in-game calendar to track seasons and adjust your Therizinosaurus’s diet accordingly. This could add a layer of realism and challenge to your gameplay.
2. Dietary Supplements
- Concept: Introduce the idea of dietary supplements that provide temporary buffs or enhance specific attributes of your Therizinosaurus. For example, a “Strength Supplement” could increase its damage output, while a “Stamina Supplement” could improve its endurance.
- Implementation: Craft these supplements using rare resources or by combining different foods. This would add a strategic element to feeding your Therizinosaurus.
3. Cultural Diets
- Concept: Imagine that different tribes or cultures within the game have unique feeding practices for their Therizinosaurus. For example, one tribe might believe in feeding their Therizinosaurus only rare flowers, while another might prefer a diet rich in vegetables.
- Implementation: Create custom feeding rituals or recipes that reflect the cultural practices of your tribe. This could add a role-playing element to your gameplay.
Conclusion
Feeding a Therizinosaurus in “Ark: Survival Evolved” is more than just a gameplay mechanic; it’s an opportunity to engage with the creature’s unique biology and behavior. By understanding both the in-game requirements and the real-world paleontological theories, you can create a more immersive and enjoyable experience. Whether you stick to the basics or experiment with creative feeding ideas, the key is to ensure that your Therizinosaurus remains healthy, happy, and ready to take on the challenges of the Ark.
Related Q&A
Q: Can I feed my Therizinosaurus meat in “Ark: Survival Evolved”? A: No, the Therizinosaurus is classified as a herbivore in the game, so it cannot consume meat. Stick to berries, vegetables, and kibble for optimal results.
Q: What is the best food for taming a Therizinosaurus? A: Therizinosaurus Kibble is the most effective food for taming. It provides the highest taming efficiency and is preferred for high-level Therizinosaurus.
Q: How do I craft Therizinosaurus Kibble? A: To craft Therizinosaurus Kibble, you will need Therizino Eggs, Longrass, Savoroot, Fiber, and Water. Combine these ingredients in a Cooking Pot or Industrial Cooker to create the kibble.
Q: Can I use Rare Flowers or Rare Mushrooms as a primary food source for my Therizinosaurus? A: While Rare Flowers and Rare Mushrooms can be used in specific situations, they are not ideal as a primary food source. Stick to berries, vegetables, and kibble for regular feeding.
Q: Are there any benefits to feeding my Therizinosaurus crafted foods like Sweet Vegetable Cake? A: Yes, crafted foods like Sweet Vegetable Cake can provide unique benefits, such as increased health regeneration. These foods are more complex to prepare but can be a valuable addition to your Therizinosaurus’s diet.