Final answer:
Collagen is essential in connective tissue ECM as it provides tensile strength, structural support, cell adhesion, and guidance for cell migration.
Step-by-step explanation:
Collagen plays a crucial role in the extracellular matrix (ECM) of connective tissue. It provides structural support and tensile strength to the tissue, allowing it to withstand stretching and bending. Collagen also facilitates cell adhesion, allowing cells to attach to the ECM and interact with each other. Additionally, collagen acts as a guiding factor for cell migration, providing a pathway for cells to move within the tissue.