Enables extracellularly glutamate-gated chloride channel activity. Involved in several processes, including locomotion involved in locomotory behavior; regulation of nematode pharyngeal pumping; and response to xenobiotic stimulus. Located in membrane. Expressed in head; neurons; and somatic nervous system. Human ortholog(s) of this gene implicated in hyperekplexia 1 and syndromic X-linked intellectual disability Pilorge type. Is an ortholog of human GLRA1 (glycine receptor alpha 1); GLRA2 (glycine receptor alpha 2); and GLRA3 (glycine receptor alpha 3).