Assessing the efficiency of clustering algorithms and goodness-of-fit measures using phytoplankton field data

► A goodness-of-fit measure should be applied for reliable clustering analyses. ► We compared two measures using phytoplankton data: the 2-norm and c. ► c did not provide a clear indication on algorithm efficiency. ► Both measures revealed UPGMA as the most faithful algorithm. ► 2-norm revealed Ward's as the least faithful algorithm.