Enables single-stranded RNA binding activity. Involved in several processes, including epithelial cell development; regulation of alternative mRNA splicing, via spliceosome; and regulation of neuron differentiation. Located in nuclear speck. Expressed in several structures, including excretory cell; neurons; somatic nervous system; tail; and vulva. Is an ortholog of human ELAVL4 (ELAV like RNA binding protein 4).