Enhanced Model-Based Clustering, Density Estimation, and Discriminant Analysis Software: MCLUST

Abstract: MCLUST is a software package for model-based clustering, density estimation and discriminant analysis interfaced to the S-PLUS commercial software and the R language. It implements parameterized Gaussian hierarchical clustering algorithms and the EM algorithm for parameterized Gaussian mixture models with the possible addition of a Poisson noise term. Also included are functions that combine hierarchical clustering, EM and the Bayesian Information Criterion (BIC) in comprehensive strategies for clustering, density estimation, and discriminant analysis. MCLUST provides functionality for displaying and visualizing clustering and classification results. A web page with related links can be found at http://www.stat.washington.edu/mclust.