The alpha male is roughly 1.3 times the mass of an adult female of the species. Whereas the average male of the species is nearly indistinguishable, at casual observation, from a female, the alpha male of a plate (extended family group of plains dragons) has substantial differences. First of all, dentition is radically different. While the average plains dragon has a comb-tooth underbite, the alpha male has, in addition to this, two pairs of tusks, one upper, one lower, behind the comb teeth. These are spaced precisely the distance necessary to puncture both the carotid artery and jugular vein, simultaneously, in another adult dragon. Needless to say, ritual combat for control of a plate ends in death for the loser.

The apparent plumage (actually specially evolved, decorative scales) on an alpha male are profuse. They are found in a mane configuration most commonly, as well as the bearding found on other dragons, though the shape and colouring of the mane is a highly individualized affair. No two mane patterns are alike. Colouration of the mane tends to be bright colours, though striking greens and rich browns are most common. Also, all plains dragons develop plumage at their wrist joints upon reaching adolescence. This is shed by the alpha male once they take possession of a plate and their hormonal changes are complete.

Breeding is available to all males of a plate, provided they can attract a mate. The alpha isn't selfish, being that a plate is made up of relations of one degree or another, the family's genetic material is passed on. Having said that, it must be made clear that the alpha always gets first take of a hunt, first choice of breeding females and kills the weak, ill or unsuitable offspring when their mother returns to the plate. He is the custodian of the genetic strength of his group. The extra mass of the alpha makes him a poor hunter, not suited to the pack tactics employed by the hunters of a plate. They primarily hunt alone for larger, slow moving prey and take tribute from other plate members.