EXHIBIT 23.1

                     CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS

As independent public accountants, we hereby consent to the incorporation by
reference in this registration statement of our report dated March 22, 1996
included in American Exploration Company's Form 10-K for the year ended December
31, 1995 and to all references to our Firm included in this registration
statement.

                                               ARTHUR ANDERSEN LLP

Houston, Texas
July 3, 1996