In the regular lab, you can of course now breed all those event species, like seahorses, hermits and crabs, if you were able to attract the necessary breeding partners. I found it easy, without spending a single fish buck. I did the gifts but my chances were never high and it was always worked.
Some Seahorses: Rubicund, Pine, Mazarine, Ocherous, Regina, Beryl, Mulberry
The names don't reflect actual breeds. But here's a nice page about seahorses, if you want to learn more http://www.squidoo.com/seahorse-pictures (I'm not affiliated, just did a search real quick.)
Some Hermits: Glisten, Onyx, Ruddy