Locating lithium in Subnautica 2 is a vital step for crafting the plasteel ingots required to upgrade your air capacity. This specific mineral remains elusive during the early game, as it only appears in regions where the water temperature is too extreme for survival without specific biological mutations. However, once you are prepared, you can find abundant deposits to satisfy your crafting needs for quite some time.
Below, we break down exactly where to secure lithium in Subnautica 2.
[Editor’s Note: Before setting out, open your character menu and enable all landmark signals. This setting is invaluable for pinpointing the specific sites detailed in this guide.]Where to find lithium in Subnautica 2
Image: Unknown Worlds/Krafton via Polygon
You can track down lithium in the vicinity of the Tadpole Pens, situated approximately 300 meters east of your Lifepod—an area you will naturally encounter while progressing through the main narrative. Because these deposits are typically nestled near geothermal heat sources, you must obtain the Angel Comb mutation (found near Wander’s Blackbox) to survive the environment. Additionally, carry a sonic resonator; lithium is a dense, stubborn mineral that, in our experience, only yields to heavy-duty harvesting tools. If you are traveling via tadpole vehicle, remain vigilant regarding your depth, as the standard model risks implosion if pushed beyond 250 meters.
Image: Unknown Worlds/Krafton via Polygon
In the gloom of a cave, lithium can easily be mistaken for lead. Look closely: while lead features blocky, square protrusions, lithium appears as a cluster of elongated, rectangular shards. Under direct light, the distinction is clear—lithium boasts a burnt-red apex that transitions into a softer, pale orange at the base.
Best lithium farming spots in Subnautica 2
Image: Unknown Worlds/Krafton via Polygon
While lithium is scattered throughout high-temperature zones, there is a premier farming location near the Tadpole Pens. Head roughly 550 meters southeast of your Lifepod and 600 meters southeast of Ruby’s Blackbox to find a massive cave entrance. You will find plenty of nodes clustered at the cavern mouth and along the base of the rock walls inside. This area is a key objective during the quest for Zip’s Blackbox, making it nearly impossible to miss.
Note that once the Tadpole Pen investigation concludes, the specific signals for that mission and the Blackbox will vanish from your UI. If you plan to return for more supplies, you will need to navigate using the Lifepod and Ruby’s Blackbox as your primary navigational beacons.
Once back at base, process one piece of lithium with titanium to forge a plasteel ingot for your air tank. You will want to keep a healthy stockpile, as lithium is a cornerstone component for high-tier upgrades throughout the late game.
If you are new to Subnautica 2, explore our comprehensive library of guides to master the depths. From our essential beginner’s walkthrough to advanced base-building strategies and tips for securing food, water, and vital resources like salt, gold, and quartz, we have everything you need to thrive in the abyss.
Source: Polygon
