Predicted to enable heparin binding activity. Predicted to be an extracellular matrix structural constituent conferring tensile strength. Predicted to be involved in extracellular matrix organization. Predicted to be part of collagen type XI trimer. Predicted to be active in collagen-containing extracellular matrix and extracellular space. Is expressed in several structures, including bone tissue; hypochord; mesenchyme derived from head mesoderm; notochord; and sensory system. Human ortholog(s) of this gene implicated in Stickler syndrome; multiple epiphyseal dysplasia 6; and osteochondrodysplasia. Orthologous to human COL9A1 (collagen type IX alpha 1 chain).