More than 150 pseudo-orcas washed up on the coast of Australia (VIDEO)

The state Department of Natural Resources and Environment said that 157 pseudo-orcas (Pseudorca crassidens - a species of marine mammal in the dolphin family - ed.) were found on a surfing beach near the Arthur River on Tasmania's northwest coast on Tuesday.

Young mammals weighed only 500 kg, while adults weighed 3 kg.

Despite their name, pseudo-orcas are among the largest members of the dolphin family.

Experts said that the adverse weather and ocean conditions that prevented the mammals from being rescued on Wednesday will continue for several more days.

Marine biologist Chris Carlion said the surviving animals would be euthanized. "The longer these animals are stranded, the longer they suffer. All alternatives have been unsuccessful," he said.

As early as Wednesday morning, the department said 136 mammals had survived, but that number had dropped to 90 within hours.

The Australian agency also noted that the release of pseudo-orcas onto the coast in Tasmania was the first for the state since 1974.

Photo: NRE