L-xylulose reductase involved in the catabolism of L-arabinose through an oxidoreductive pathway. Catalyzes the NADPH-dependent reduction of L-xylulose. 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 D-xylose and L-arabinose. Reduces slightly growth rate on L-arabinose and abolishes L-xylulose reductase activity. Belongs to the short-chain dehydrogenases/reductases (SDR) family.