Exhibit 23.1

            CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS


  As independent public accountants, we hereby consent to the
incorporation of our report included in this Form 8-K, into
McMoRan Exploration Co.'s previously filed Registration
Statements on Form S-3 (File No. 333-95195) and on Form S-8
(File Nos. 333-67485 and 333-67963).



                                  /s/ ARTHUR ANDERSEN LLP

  New Orleans, Louisiana
  February 8, 2001