Hydroxamate-type siderophores like desferrioxamine B (DFO) are the most common siderophores ubiquitously found in the environment. These naturally occurring chelating substances have the potential to enhance the solubility and mobility of actinides by forming soluble complexes. The unknown interaction between curium(III) and aqueous DFO species is the subject of this paper. The reactions between soluble species of curium(III) and DFO were Studied at trace curium(III) concentrations (3 x 10(-7) M) 0.1M NaClO4 using time-resolved laser-induced fluorescence spectroscopy (TRLFS). Three Cm3+-DFO species. MpHqLr, could be identified from the luminescence spectra, CmH2DFO2+. CmHDFO+, and CmDFO, having emission maxima at 599, 611, and 614 nm, respectively. The large formation constants. log beta(121) = 31.62 +/- 0.23, log beta(101) = 25.70 +/- 0.17, and log beta(101) = 16.80 +/- 0.40, compared to those of other chelating agents illustrate the unique complexation properties of hydroxamate-type siderophores. All indirect excitation mechanism for the curium(III) luminescence was observed in the presence of the DFO molecules.