L-xylulose reductase involved in the catabolism of L-arabinose through an oxidoreductive pathway. Catalyzes the NADPH-dependent reduction of L-xylulose. Is also able to convert D-xylulose, D-ribulose, L-sorbose, and D-fructose to their corresponding polyols. NADP(+) + xylitol = H(+) + L-xylulose + NADPH Carbohydrate degradation; L-arabinose degradation via L-arabinitol; D-xylulose 5-phosphate from L-arabinose (fungal route): step 3/5. Transcription is repressed by D-glucose and induced by L-arabinose and L-arabitol. Decreases strongly levels of growth on solid medium and biomass accumulation during liquid cultivation for both L-arabinose and L-arabitol; and impairs L-xylulose reductase activity. Belongs to the short-chain dehydrogenases/reductases (SDR) family.