Relationship of body maturation with response to estrus synchronization and fixed-time AI in Nelore (Bos indicus) heifers

•Subcutaneous adipose tissue has an important bearing on puberty and P/AI in young Nelore heifers.•Chest depth, which is indicative of adipose-muscle maturation, also influences P/AI.•Nelore heifers selected and managed for body maturation can achieve a pregnancy rate to FTAI at around 14 months that is similar with pregnancy rates in older heifers.•Heifers subjected to assisted breeding must have an appropriate body maturation which is reflected in subcutaneous adipose tissue.